Cover Professor Dr Teo Soo-Hwang, former founding chief executive of Cancer Research Malaysia (Photo: Fady Younis)
Professor Dr Teo Soo-Hwang, former founding chief executive of Cancer Research Malaysia (Photo: Fady Younis)
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A pioneer in developing new methods of predicting and detecting cancer in crucial early stages, Prof Datin Paduka Dr Teo Soo-Hwang’s innovative efforts have saved countless lives
An inspirational force in the field of medical research, Professor Datin Paduka Dr Teo Soo-Hwang was the founding CEO and chief scientific officer of Cancer Research Malaysia. As a Yayasan Sime Darby scholar at Cambridge, she recognised the lack of research focusing on Asian populations and seized the opportunity to lead a groundbreaking research non-profit organisation.
Read more: Professor Dr Teo Soo-Hwang on her illustrious career in cancer research
Some of her most notable achievements include initiating the Malaysian Breast Cancer Genetic Study, leading to the identification of genes associated with cancer risk and the creation of the Asian Genetic Risk Calculator, empowering individuals to make educated decisions towards disease prevention. This year, Teo was also awarded the Front & Female Award for Well-Being, for her contributions to women’s health at Cancer Research Malaysia.
“We’ve built the largest cohort of Asian breast cancer patients, mapped the cancer causing genes and developed tools to help doctors and patients access life saving genetics services. We built the most comprehensive genomics map of Asian breast cancers and developed new ways of identifying patients who might benefit from immunotherapy, moving our discoveries from the lab to benefit patients.”
Teo also oversaw the development of a cancer vaccine for head and neck cancers which are more common in Asians and the development of a mobile app for early detection of the disease, so that more could benefit from early detection. “In partnership with the Ministry of Health, we established patient navigation services serving low income patients, because no man or woman should be left behind,” Teo adds.
Her research findings have earned her numerous grants and accolades, including the Wellcome Trust Collaborative Science Award and the Newton Grant Awards. She was also the first Malaysian to receive an Honorary Officer of the British Empire from the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Above Teo’s efforts were acknowledged by Cancer Research Malaysia this International Women’s Day 2024 (Photo: Cancer Research Malaysia)
Teo’s efforts were acknowledged by Cancer Research Malaysia this International Women’s Day 2024 (Photo: Cancer Research Malaysia)
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As an inaugural Tatler Impact Award for Innovation recipient, Teo was presented a custom-made trophy by Artelia in recognition of her innovative efforts in cancer research. She also received an exclusive bio-hacking pass from Āmanï Wellness as well as an Armani Prive gift.
Tatler Ball 2024 is proudly sponsored by Cartier, Volvo, The St Regis Kuala Lumpur, The Exchange TRX, Valiram, Armani Beauty, Moët Hennessy Diageo Malaysia, Amani Wellness and Artelia
Credits
Photography: Fady Younis
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