From Cells to Society: A Holistic Exploration of the association between cancer and healthy lifestyle habits

by Constantina Constantinou, Professor of Molecular Cancer Biology, UNIC Medical School

Introduction by Prof Adonis Ioannides, Dean, UNIC Medical School

BRIEF SUMMARY

This lecture will present the intricate and multifaceted relationship between cancer and lifestyle habits, offering a comprehensive investigation from molecular pathways to societal impacts. Commencing with an overview of cancer, the lecture will explore how Lifestyle Medicine can contribute towards the prevention and management of cancer. Emphasising the pivotal role of nutrition, physical activity, weight management, and stress, the discussion will unravel the association between these four pillars of lifestyle medicine and cancer. Moreover, the presentation will explore the barriers and facilitators impacting the adoption of healthy lifestyles by the general public and cancer survivors. Lastly, the lecture will introduce the research project HEROES which is investigating the adoption of healthy lifestyles by breast cancer survivors in Cyprus. This lecture aims to enlighten our perceptions of cancer and its association with healthy living. By fostering a deeper understanding of the interconnected web between molecular pathways, lifestyle choices, and societal influences, this presentation aims to contribute valuable insights to the fields of cancer research and public health.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Constantina Constantinou is a Professor of Molecular Cancer Biology at the University of Nicosia Medical School. Prof Constantinou earned her BA Degree in Biological Sciences (concentration in Microbiology) with Distinction in all subjects from Cornell University, USA and furthered her education with an MSc in General and Medical Microbiology with Distinction from University College London, UK, and a PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from St George’s, University of London, UK. Her academic journey also includes a PgCertHE from the University of Hertfordshire.

Prof Constantinou’s expertise has been enriched through post-doctoral research positions at St George’s University of London, and the University of Cyprus, in the field of molecular cancer biology. Since joining the University of Nicosia in 2010, Prof Constantinou has held various academic and administrative roles, including Associate Dean for Research, Director of the PhD Programme in Medical Sciences, and Director of the Doctor of Medicine undergraduate programme.

Prof Constantinou is a Fulbright Scholar and has also received prestigious scholarships from the A. G. Leventis Foundation, the Overseas Research Awards Scheme (ORS) and the Welcome Trust Value in People (VIP) Award.

Her research is centred around cancer biology and oncology, with a specific focus on molecular pathways of tumorigenesis. Additionally, she is interested in the field of lifestyle medicine, exploring the impact of healthy lifestyle in the prevention and management of cancer and other chronic diseases.

Throughout her career, Prof Constantinou has actively participated in numerous research projects funded by national, European, and international agencies. Her research findings have been published in high impact factor journals.