As 2025 begins, LRT hosted its traditional annual event to reflect on and celebrate the most significant events, individuals, and initiatives of the past year that inspired Lithuania to unite, grow, and thrive. During the LRT Annual Awards Ceremony, Vilnius University Life Sciences Center (VU LSC) researchers Prof. Sonata Jarmalaitė and Dr. Rasa Sabaliauskaitė were recognized in the "Discovery of the Year" category for their groundbreaking research on kidney cancer, aimed at reducing its prevalence.
In May 2024, the prestigious journal Nature published the results of a seven-year international study on kidney cancer mutography. Among the authors were Prof. Jarmalaitė and Dr. Sabaliauskaitė. The study involved scientists from 11 countries who analyzed nearly 1,000 kidney cancer genome sequences, identifying specific mutation patterns that reveal the causes of the disease. The research confirmed that smoking, internal cellular processes, and exposure to aristolochic acid are key factors contributing to kidney cancer. Additionally, the team discovered a unique mutation profile specific to the disease.
"Thank you, LRT, for highlighting the work of scientists, and thank you to everyone who voted and showed interest in what happens in our laboratories. Our research focuses on understanding why kidney cancer is more common in Lithuania compared to other countries. While cancer diagnosis and treatment now rely on highly advanced technologies and tools, which are extremely costly, the most effective and affordable way to combat cancer is to identify its causes and address them. Unfortunately, this is not an easy path.
Science shows that around 50% of cancer cases could be prevented by adopting healthy lifestyle habits – eating well, staying active, and avoiding harmful behaviors. These simple actions are within everyone’s reach. The remaining 50% depends on science and government efforts to identify and eliminate risk factors," Prof. Jarmalaitė told LRT, expressing gratitude for the recognition of science and for all those contributing to the fight against cancer.
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