We had a quick chat about sun safety and skin cancer concerns with Dr. Marjan Mojtabavi Naeini, one of Cure Cancer’s 2022 researchers. She was the recipient of the Australian Skin and Skin Cancer Research Centre (ASSC) Early Career Researcher Award in 2019, and she is currently based at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research.
On skin cancer research
Dr. Marjan is optimistic about the new trends in skin cancer treatment. “Melanoma researchers have introduced a new treatment approach called immunotherapy which helps in utilising the patient's immune system to kill cancer cells. This approach has proven to be effective even in treating advanced melanoma.”
But even though we have had impressive advancements in skin cancer research, she is quick to point out the benefits of practising sun-safe habits and some risks that not a lot of people may be aware of. “People with fairer skin, lighter hair, weakened immune system and family history of melanoma have higher risks of melanoma. It is important for everyone to thoroughly examine their skin and visit dermatologists regularly.“
On sun safety
Not only is Dr. Marjan a brilliant researcher and computational biologist, she is also an avid swimmer. In fact, she used to swim professionally as a teenager. She knows the importance of sun safety both as a skin cancer researcher and as an athlete. “It is crucial to wear sunscreen when stepping outside even on cloudy days or if staying in the shade.” UV rays that damage skin cells and increase the risk of melanoma are present all-year round, and not just during hot seasons. And even in the shade, UV rays can reach you or reflect off surfaces such as water or cement. Sunscreen for the whole body such as Solbari’s range of SPF50+ can help protect from harmful UV.
On Solbari’s mission
As a skin cancer researcher, Dr. Marjan shares a similar mission to Solbari in helping people prevent skin cancers, melanomas, and sun damage.
“Since I was a school girl, I have always thought of contributing to society. I have seen people who suffered from cancer and yet no cure for some cancer patients who are beloved of their families and friends. I have been thinking of the day when we find a suitable cure for all cancer patients. Still not there, but I have been fighting for a world without cancer.”
And like Solbari, she also believes in empowering people to live a sun-safe life. “It is important as Solbari’s mission would give people the opportunity of taking care of their skin and therefore reduce the risk of melanoma. Prevention is better and easier than cure!”
You can find out more about Solbari's sun protective range by clicking the blue links below:
