On Saturday 9 May, it was time to step away from the screen and share knowledge face-to-face with the public, whilst contributing to a good cause. SHINE and NOVA took part in the 3rd edition of the Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro “Mexer Contra o Cancro” event, which brings together science, community and physical activity with the shared aim of supporting cancer research at the Jamor National Sports Centre in Lisbon.

“Mexer Contra o Cancro” aims to raise funds for Oncology Research Grants, whilst also promoting physical activity as a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. Between 9am and 6pm, alongside a wide range of physical and leisure activities catering to all ages and tastes, NOVA and SHINE set up a stand to share news about our TRACE project and other EU projects that our partners are involved. At SHINE stand spun its Prevention Wheel to promote inclusion, civic participation and health literacy in cancer prevention and treatment.

It was a morning and an afternoon spent connecting and sharing with families, partners, members of the public, volunteers, representatives from local authorities, and even people living with cancer. More than just an institutional presence, this participation underlined the partners commitment to bridging the gap between science and active public engagement, with a view to more effective and inclusive research.

SHINE and the National School of Public Health of NOVA University, partner and coordinator of TRACE project shared its premises with the AICIB – National Agency for Clinical Research and Biomedical Innovation. In the field of cancer, besides our project, were also involved the research projects LIVERATION, MAYA, CURTAIN, RADIOVAL, CAREWAY, Medi-Case e INE-CSC.

According to the Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro, thanks to the joint effort, the organization exceeded its fundraising goals for the event and raised enough funds to finance at least 10 research grants. Registration opens in September.