Student Researcher Advances to International Science Fair with Groundbreaking Lung Cancer Study

A talented young scientist from Hawai‘i is making waves in the STEM community with groundbreaking research that could lead to safer lung cancer treatments. Lillian Tao recently earned second place overall at the Hawai‘i East District Science & Engineering Fair, securing a coveted spot at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Columbus, Ohio, in May 2025. ISEF, the world’s largest international pre-college science competition, brings together top high school students from around the globe to showcase innovative independent research.

The inspiration for Lillian’s award-winning project, “Investigation of a Safer Treatment for Lung Cancer Using a Traditional Hawaiian Herb, Morinda citrifolia (Noni),” came from working with the Coalition for a Tobacco-Free Hawai‘i (CTFH) Youth Council. Through advocacy and education, Lillian became acutely aware of the critical tobacco-related health crisis in Hawai‘i, including high smoking rates, secondhand smoke exposure, and significant healthcare disparities. This awareness fueled a passion not just for tobacco prevention but also for discovering safer, more accessible treatments for lung cancer.

Current treatments for lung cancer, such as chemotherapy with cisplatin, can cause severe side effects, and alternative options are often out of reach for many patients—especially in Hawai‘i. Lillian’s research explored the potential of Morinda citrifolia (noni), a traditional Hawaiian medicinal plant introduced by ancient Polynesians, as a safer alternative. The findings revealed that noni demonstrates anti-lung cancer activity comparable to cisplatin but with fewer harmful effects on normal lung cells. These promising results could pave the way for the future development of more effective and less toxic cancer treatments.

“I sincerely thank the Coalition for a Tobacco-Free Hawai‘i Youth Council for inspiring me to take on this project,” said Lillian. “Without the knowledge and opportunities provided by the Youth Council, this achievement would not have been possible. I look forward to continuing my work as part of the Council and contributing to efforts that create a healthier Hawai‘i by reducing tobacco-related diseases and disparities.”

We congratulate Lilian on this outstanding accomplishment and wish them the best of luck at ISEF 2025!