25-05-2025
Iraqi researcher Dr. Tawana Elias wins award in Sweden for cancer prevention research
Malmo ( – Iraqi researcher Dr. Tawana Hasib Al-Qass Elias has won a Best Poster award at a prestigious international scientific conference on oncology in Malmö, Sweden, held May 22-23, 2025. His work focuses on a groundbreaking approach to breast cancer prevention.
Dr. Elias, who earned his PhD from Sweden's renowned Karolinska Institute after graduating from Salahaddin University in Iraq, presented research on an innovative laboratory model that mimics natural breast cell behavior. This model aids in evaluating a potential preventative hormonal drug for women at extremely high genetic risk (up to 75%) of breast cancer, offering a possible alternative to preventative surgeries.
The research, involving an initial 50 participants over three months, yielded encouraging results, demonstrating – reportedly for the first time globally – the drug's potential for breast cancer prevention in this high-risk group. Dr. Elias stated work is underway to expand the study.
He credits his education, including support from Salahaddin University and the KRG for his studies at Karolinska, and his dedication to science for this achievement, aiming to serve patients and advance human progress.
