RICHLAND, Wash. — A local high school student is gaining national attention for his innovative work in health technology. Akshath Motkuri, has invented a non-invasive test for diabetes and bone disorders, winning the Congressional App Challenge in Washington’s Fourth Congressional District.
Motkuri, only 15 years old, has created a test that could revolutionize early detection for diabetes, a disease impacting more than 800 million people worldwide. Inspired by personal experience, Motkuri’s invention is aimed at providing a cost-effective, non-invasive, and accessible detection system.
Motkuri’s motivation came from witnessing his grandfather in India struggle with invasive testing methods. “There are many invasive ways out there. Many blood pricking ways. And when I went to India, I saw my grandpa like having to take his blood, [to] go through the sugar test and see if he had diabetes,” he said. “Why don’t we just think of a noninvasive way? A better way,” Motkuri said.
The invention uses a plank of wood embedded with sensors to detect glucose concentrations and bone health conditions, offering a simple method for early AI-powered detection.
While developing this technology, Motkuri learned about the Congressional App Challenge and decided to participate. “Let’s just try this out. If I don’t get it, I don’t get it,” he said.
With nearly 14,000 students submitting apps and inventions nationwide, each participating district selected its own winner. Motkuri emerged victorious in Washington’s Fourth District. “I would say that the first emotion I got was I was satisfied. I felt that all my hard work paid off and I was able to see that persistence, perseverance and resilience is our main factors,” he said.
This recognition highlights Motkuri’s dedication and the potential impact of his invention on diabetes detection.
