Science Café in Lisbon dedicated to Orange December: Skin cancer awareness and prevention

On 15 December 2025, a Science Café dedicated exclusively to skin cancer was held in a café in Lisbon, with a particular focus on awareness and prevention. In an informal setting, dermatologist and researcher at NOVA Medical School Ana Brasileiro presented key national data, the warning signs that should keep us alert, and preventive measures associated with what is considered one of the most prevalent types of cancer in Portugal. 

This was followed by a presentation of the various initiatives of the Ciência + Cidadã programme by its coordinator at ITQB NOVA, Maria João Leão. This provided the framework for introducing the Sombra para Todxs (Shade for Everyone) project: Magda Fonseca, from the EVITA association – Cancro Hereditário, and Nuno Charneca, from InovLabs, showed not only epidemiological data, but also identified risk factors, leaving a clear message: “If in doubt, consult a dermatologist. Early diagnosis can save lives”.  

The session concluded with a presentation by the project ambassadors, a group of students from Quinta do Marquês Secondary School in Oeiras, who demonstrated some of the equipment developed to raise awareness of the risks among the population and to promote the adoption of effective preventive measures.