Professor of Medicine and Professor of Surgery
Brown University
I am an academic medical oncologist with expertise in novel therapeutics and translational research specific to breast and pelvic cancers. However, my work goes beyond innovative treatment approaches and includes research in to modern communication technologies that evaluate the professional use of social media and its potential to improve access and the conduct of clinical trials. It also includes work in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) particularly as it relates to the access to cancer care among sexual and gender minorities, and to cancer survivorship following diagnosis, particularly as it relates to sexual health. I devote much of my time to quality of life following a diagnosis of cancer and am an advocate of the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship’s definition of survivor, which begins at diagnosis as opposed to the end of curative treatment. At Brown we have instituted a program for all diagnosed with cancer (irrespective of whether they are on- or off of cancer therapy). It is important that issues related to the life people are living are accessed by all, including those with metastatic, advanced, or recurrent disease. Much of my work has been focused in and advocating for sexual health and intimacy services after a cancer diagnosis. I have founded multiple sexual health programs and continue to devote time to this subject, including mentoring individuals who are interested in championing these serves locally and internationally.
