Author Archive
Applied Cancer Research Funding Stream
The Applied Cancer Research funding stream supports small-scale, high-impact research projects developed in collaboration with accredited South African universities and research institutions. Projects must align with CANSA’s operational priorities and generate actionable evidence to improve cancer-related outcomes, services, and patient support initiatives in South Africa. Research Focus Areas Projects may focus on: Cancer prevention and […]
Read morePublished: 10 April 2026 | Last Updated: 12 May 2026
Categories: CANSA Research, Research Funding and Grants
Patient Care – Resources
These resources have been developed to support patients and caregivers with practical guidance, information, and tools to manage cancer care and improve wellbeing. They provide insights into coping strategies, nutrition, and everyday care while undergoing treatment. Cancer Patients & Hair Loss Read the Article: Compassionhat Partners with CANSALearn how Compassionhat collaborates with CANSA to support […]
Read morePublished: 11 March 2026
Categories: CANSA Seal of Recognition - Patient Care, CANSA's Seal of Recognition
Participants Needed for Research Study: Cervical Cancer
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University invites Black African women to take part in a study exploring how they recognise and respond to cervical cancer symptoms. The study aims to understand the thoughts, emotions, and cultural beliefs that influence how women identify symptoms and decide to seek medical care for cervical cancer. Recruitment Closing Date: 31 May 2026.
Read morePublished: 4 March 2026 | Last Updated: 4 March 2026
Categories: CANSA Research, Notice Board, Take Part in Cancer-related Research
New CANSA-Funded Type A Research Projects
We are pleased to announce two new CANSA-funded Type A research projects commencing on 1 April 2026. These projects are led by outstanding South African researchers whose work advances knowledge, supports innovation, and strengthens cancer research in South Africa. We are honoured to partner with leading scientists whose expertise plays a vital role in expanding […]
Read morePublished: 12 February 2026 | Last Updated: 13 February 2026
Categories: CANSA Research, Notice Board, Research Funding and Grants, Research Projects
Modelling Preferred HPV Therapeutic Vaccine Characteristics in South Africa
Dr Cari van Schalkwyk Senior Researcher, South African Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (SACEMA), Stellenbosch University Email Project Title Modelling preferred HPV therapeutic vaccine characteristics in South Africa Project Description Cervical cancer is South Africa’s leading cause of cancer-related death among women, with disproportionate impact on women living with HIV, who experience higher rates […]
Read morePublished: 12 February 2026 | Last Updated: 13 February 2026
Categories: CANSA Research, Research Projects
Resources for Healthier Eating & Cancer Risk Reduction
These resources have been developed in collaboration with CANSA and selected Edible Consumer Goods partners to provide practical guidance on healthier cooking, informed food choices, and cancer risk reduction. View products in our Edible Consumer Goods category that meet CANSA’s health-focused standards and support healthier eating. Lifestyle Guides & Booklets Caring Beyond the Plate: A […]
Read morePublished: 5 February 2026 | Last Updated: 31 March 2026
Categories: CANSA Seal of Recognition - Edible Consumer Goods Category, CANSA's Seal of Recognition
Molecular Causes of Early-onset Colorectal Cancers in South Africans of African Ancestry: The CRC-Gen Study
Dr June Fabian Director of the Wits Donald Gordon Medical Research Institute (WDGMRI); Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand Email Project Title Molecular causes of early-onset colorectal cancers in South Africans of African ancestry: The CRC-Gen Study Project Description Early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC), diagnosed before age 50, disproportionately affects people of African ancestry. […]
Read morePublished: 27 January 2026 | Last Updated: 28 January 2026
Categories: CANSA Research, Research Projects
CANSA is Seeking Court Order for Trademark Infringements by Sunscreen Manufacturer
The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) announces that the products of Kool-a-Chem and any of its official associated brands do not carry the CANSA Smart Choice Seal of Recognition endorsement of CANSA, following a trademark infringement. #LowerCancerRisk #CANSASmartChoice Elize Joubert, CANSA CEO, says, “It came to our attention that Kool-a-Chem infringed CANSA’s trademark. Following […]
Read morePublished: 5 November 2025 | Last Updated: 5 November 2025
Categories: CANSA Seal of Recognition - Protection Category, CANSA's Seal of Recognition, Notice Board
Leading with Excellence: Prof Jane Harries Wins CANSA Senior Leadership Award 2025
It is with great admiration that we recognise the exceptional leadership of Prof Jane Harries, Head of Research at CANSA, for the period April 2024 to March 2025. Her dedication and vision have significantly advanced CANSA’s research mandate and strengthened its reputation as a leading cancer control organisation in South Africa. Under Jane’s leadership, CANSA’s […]
Read morePublished: 3 November 2025 | Last Updated: 3 November 2025
Categories: CANSA Research, Notice Board, Our Research Team
AG Oettlé Memorial Award 2025 to Dr Maureen Joffe
Dr Maureen Joffe has been selected to receive the coveted AG Oettlé Memorial medal from CANSA for her outstanding contributions to cancer research. CANSA honours this distinguished scientist, in recognition of her remarkable contribution to cancer research, health systems strengthening, and the advancement of cancer control in South Africa and across the African continent. Dr […]
Read morePublished: 31 October 2025 | Last Updated: 31 October 2025
Categories: CANSA Research, Notice Board
AG Oettlé Memorial Award 2025 to Prof Sharon Prince
Professor Sharon Prince has been selected to receive the coveted AG Oettlé Memorial medal from CANSA in recognition of her outstanding contributions to cancer research. CANSA honours Professor Sharon Prince, Professor of Cell Biology and Deputy Dean of Research in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Cape Town, in recognition of her […]
Read morePublished: 31 October 2025
Categories: CANSA Research, Notice Board
Beyond Pink Ribbons: Why What we Eat Matters in the Fight Against Cancer
As we commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month and World Food Safety Day, let’s remember that what we eat truly matters – especially in the fight against cancer. Every ingredient we choose can either support our health or work against it. Be a conscientious shopper, select foods that nourish and protect your body, and prioritise safe food handling…
Read morePublished: 16 October 2025 | Last Updated: 4 February 2026
Categories: CANSA Seal of Recognition - Edible Consumer Goods Category, CANSA's Seal of Recognition
The Impact of Non-Nutritive Sweeteners on Health and Cancer Risk
Information Guide: The Impact of Non-Nutritive Sweeteners on Health and Cancer Risk Download the Information Guide (PDF) here. Non–nutritive Sweeteners (NNS) are substances used to provide a sweet taste in foods and beverages that deliver little to no calories. They are much sweeter than sugar, so only tiny amounts are required, which helps reduce overall […]
Read morePublished: 28 August 2025 | Last Updated: 1 September 2025
Categories: Balanced Lifestyle, CANSA Research, CANSA Seal of Recognition - Edible Consumer Goods Category, Notice Board, Reduce Cancer Risk, Research Findings
Regular Exercise Preceding Cancer Diagnosis Linked to Lower Likelihood of Cancer Progression and Death
29 January 2025 – New Discovery Vitality research: Engaging in regular physical activity before a cancer diagnosis can significantly reduce the risk of cancer progression and mortality, according to new research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine. The study, conducted by Discovery Vitality in partnership with researchers from Wits University and the University […]
Read morePublished: 5 February 2025 | Last Updated: 5 February 2025
Categories: CANSA's Seal of Recognition, CANSA's Seal of Recognition - Physical Activity Category
Publications of our Larger-Scale Research Grant Holders
Larger-Scale Grant Holders: Prof Jonathan Blackburn Title of the project: Microbial modulation of the tumour microenvironment in pancreatic cancer: early diagnostic markers and candidate therapeutic targets Publication: Identification and validation of a novel autoantibody biomarker panel for differential diagnosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma published in Frontiers in Immunology (2025) Prof Christopher Mathew & A/Prof Michael Urban […]
Read morePublished: 21 January 2025 | Last Updated: 12 May 2026
Categories: CANSA Research, Research Findings
CANSA Welcomes Flatdog Bodyguard Sunscreen
2 July 2024 – CANSA is proud to announce Flatdog Bodyguard Sunscreen as a new partner under the CANSA Seal of Recognition (CSOR) Smart Choice Protection category. Flatdog Bodyguard Sunscreen joins an esteemed group of products that align with CANSA’s mission to reduce cancer risk. #LowerCancerRisk #CANSASmartChoice Kudzai Nyaruve, CANSA Seal of Recognition Coordinator, commented […]
Read morePublished: 1 July 2024
Categories: Advocacy, CANSA Seal of Recognition - Protection Category, CANSA's Seal of Recognition, SunSmart
Message of Condolence for Professor Lynnette Denny
The CANSA Board, employees and volunteers were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Emerita Professor Lynnette Denny on 9 June. As a cervical cancer researcher, Prof Lynne Denny was highly valued by CANSA. She was a Chief Specialist and Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Groote Schuur Hospital and the University of Cape […]
Read morePublished: 12 June 2024 | Last Updated: 12 June 2024
Categories: CANSA Research, Notice Board
Microbial Modulation of the Tumour Microenvironment in Pancreatic Cancer: Early Diagnostic Markers and Candidate Therapeutic Targets
Professor Jonathan Blackburn Institute of Infectious Disease & Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town Email Title of the project Microbial modulation of the tumour microenvironment in pancreatic cancer: early diagnostic markers and candidate therapeutic targets Project Description The project employs a multi-omic approach to biomarker identification, validation and elucidation of molecular […]
Read morePublished: 25 March 2024 | Last Updated: 13 October 2025
Categories: CANSA Research, Research Projects
CANSA Endorses SunKin Apparel for Kids
SunKin is more than just a collection of brightly coloured, spirited, and beautifully crafted apparel for children; it is a commitment to prioritizing sun safety above all else. Created with a deep love for family and the endless joys of sun-soaked, ice cream-filled summer days, SunKin ensures that little adventurers can enjoy extended outdoor play […]
Read morePublished: 25 March 2024 | Last Updated: 18 December 2025
Categories: CANSA Seal of Recognition - Protection Category, CANSA's Seal of Recognition, SunSmart
Applied Cancer Research Programme Projects
Our Applied Cancer Research Programme projects often support research conducted by postgraduate students under the supervision of their host institution. Programme Note This programme consolidates CANSA’s former Type B and Type C funding streams into a single, streamlined funding mechanism to improve clarity, accessibility, and strategic alignment. It supports emerging and early-career researchers and strengthens […]
Read morePublished: 15 March 2024 | Last Updated: 14 April 2026
Categories: CANSA Research, Research Projects
Dr Eloise van der Merwe – Knockdown of LRP/LR Impedes Multiple Cancer Hallmarks in Lung Cancer Cells
Dr Eloise van der Merwe of the School of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of the Witwatersrand delivered a poster at the ASCB/EMBO Cell Bio 2023 conference in Boston, USA from 2-6 December 2023 as part of the late Prof Stefan Weiss’s CANSA-funded project. Read more… Download the poster Abstract: Knockdown of LRP/LR Impedes Multiple […]
Read morePublished: 6 February 2024 | Last Updated: 7 February 2024
Categories: CANSA Research, Notice Board, Research Findings, Research Projects
