Driving innovation AND empowering patients is no easy feat. Fortunately, trailblazers in the fields of digestive wellness, gastroenterology, and acid reflux management are making incredible strides through clinical practice, research, and advocacy.
This month, we’re celebrating the achievements of 9 remarkable women who have become true trailblazers in their respective fields. Let’s dive into their inspiring journeys and celebrate the pivotal role they each play in shaping today’s digestive health landscape.
Click each name below to jump to their bio:
- Dr. Amy Oxentenko
- Dr. Maria Abreu
- Dr. Jennifer Christie
- Dr. Jamie Koufman
- Dr. Megan Rossi
- Dr. Asma Khapra
- Molly Pelletier
- Dr. Michelle Kang Kim
- Dr. Michelle Hughes
Dr. Amy Oxentenko:
A Trailblazing Gastroenterologist & Educator
Dr. Amy Oxentenko MD, FACP, FACG, AGAF, named the 2020 Woman Disruptor of the Year by Healio GI, is a distinguished Professor of Medicine and a leading gastroenterologist specializing in celiac disease and malabsorption.
Leadership Roles:
- Dr. Oxentenko's leadership extends to Chair of Medicine at Mayo Clinic in Arizona and her current role as Vice Dean of Practice for all Mayo Clinic sites.
- As the program sponsor for the Whitney MacMillan Physician Leadership Business Academy, she plays a pivotal role in a joint collaboration between Mayo Clinic and Arizona State University.
- Dr. Oxentenko currently serves on the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) Board of Trustees and Executive Team, slated to become ACG President in 2024-2025.
- Additionally, she holds the position of Vice Chair on the Executive Committee of the Internal Medicine ACGME Review Committee..
Trailblazing Recognition and Awards:
- Named the 2020 Woman Disruptor of the Year by Healio GI and acknowledged as one of the "top 100 alumni" by her undergraduate alma mater.
- Recipient of Mayo's Department of IM Distinguished Contributions to Medical Education Award, Mayo Clinic School of GME Program Director of the Year Award, and Minnesota's ACP Laureate Award.
- Dr. Oxentenko utilizes her social media platform to champion issues in diversity, equity, and inclusion, leadership development, and research dissemination.
Dr. Oxentenko has shared her insights through a podcast on GERD, available here. Her multifaceted contributions, from medical education to leadership and advocacy, highlight her as a true trailblazer in the field of gastroenterology.
—> You can find more information on Dr. Oxentenko here and find her on Twitter here.
Dr. Maria Abreu:
Groundbreaking IBD Research
Dr. Maria T. Abreu MD, AGAF stands as an internationally acclaimed gastroenterologist and physician scientist with over two decades of leadership in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). With a medical degree from the University of Miami and extensive training, she currently serves as the Director of the Crohn’s & Colitis Center at the University of Miami Health System.
Commitment to Diversity and Research:
- Dr. Abreu's research centers on understanding the immune system's response to gut bacteria, particularly in IBD.
- Her laboratory's emphasis on the emergence of IBD in Hispanic immigrants led to groundbreaking studies on diet's impact on IBD and improving adherence to dietary plans.
- Her dedication to understanding IBD in diverse populations led to the creation of the University of Miami IBD Center Clinical Phenotype Database and Tissue Repository, containing one of the largest numbers of Hispanic samples in the U.S.
Leadership and Impact:
- Dr. Abreu is the fifth woman and the first Latina to serve as the President of the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA).
- As the Chair of the 2022 Sherman Prize Selection Committee, she continues to shape the landscape of gastroenterological advancements.
- Recognized with the 2016 Minority Digestive Health Care Award and the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation Honorary Book of Hope Award in 2018.
- Awarded Healio’s Lifetime Disruptor Award in 2020 for consistently pushing the field forward.
A true Renaissance woman—physician-scientist, mother, wife, dancer, triathlete, chef—Dr. Maria Abreu's unwavering commitment to advancing gastroenterology and improving the lives of IBD patients cements her legacy as a pioneering force in the field.
—> You can find more information on Dr. Abreu here and here and find her on Twitter here.
Dr. Jennifer Christie:
Spearheading Advances in GI Health
Dr. Jennifer Christie MD, the current president of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) and the division head at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, stands at the forefront of innovation and discovery in gastrointestinal (GI) health.
Key Leadership Roles:
- Serving as the president of ASGE, Dr. Christie plays a pivotal role in setting strategic directions, policies, and governance for the organization.
- As the division head at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, she oversees groundbreaking initiatives in GI cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, esophageal inflammation, and more.
DART Research Program:
- Dr. Christie leads the DART research program, a dynamic initiative at the heart of her division that supports over 50 clinical trials.
- With a commitment to research, the program has secured more than $32 million in federal funding, positioning it at the forefront of innovation in GI cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, esophageal inflammation, liver immunology, and intestinal fibrosis.
Dr. Jennifer Christie's leadership and research contributions exemplify her commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge in gastroenterology, bringing cutting-edge advancements to both her patients and the broader medical community.
—> You can find more information on Dr. Christie here and find her on LinkedIn here.
Dr. Jamie Koufman:
A Pioneer in Acid Reflux Care
Dr. Jamie Koufman stands as a luminary in the realm of acid reflux research, with a distinguished career marked by groundbreaking contributions. Renowned for her extensive work in understanding and treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Dr. Koufman has significantly advanced our comprehension of the condition.
Medical Expertise:
- With 45 years of experience practicing medicine, Dr. Koufman has emerged as a trusted authority in the field of acid reflux, catering to a diverse clientele, including Kings, Presidents, Rock Stars, Opera, Broadway, and TV Personalities.
- Dr. Koufman has contributed the dissemination of knowledge in the medical community with keynotes at institutions such as Harvard, Hopkins, Mayo Clinic, and UCLA.
Scientific Contributions:
- Dr. Koufman has pioneered studies that delve into the intricate mechanisms of acid reflux, shedding light on the complex interplay between lifestyle factors, dietary choices, and the physiological aspects of GERD.
- She coined the terms laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and silent reflux, putting these conditions on the medical map and contributing significantly to the understanding of reflux-related disorders.
Recognition and Awards:
- Dr. Koufman has received the Distinguished Service Award of the American Academy Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the field.
- Consistently listed among the Top Doctors in America every year since 1994, Dr. Koufman's expertise is acknowledged by her peers.
Innovative Approaches:
- Dr. Koufman has been a pioneer in microlaryngeal laser surgery, contributing to advances in surgical techniques within her field.
- In 2018, she introduced the term Respiratory Reflux as a more intuitive description of acid reflux affecting the entire respiratory tract. This innovative approach reflects her commitment to advancing terminology for clearer communication.
Current Projects:
- Dr. Koufman is currently working on a legacy book titled "Respiratory Reflux: How Silent Reflux Causes Respiratory Disease and Why the U.S. Healthcare System Is Failing." The book aims to encapsulate 45 years of her discoveries and clinical experience, addressing the challenges in diagnosing and treating respiratory reflux.
Dr. Jamie Koufman's commitment to advancing healthcare, groundbreaking scientific work, and innovative approaches make her a pivotal figure in the field of acid reflux care. Her multifaceted contributions continue to shape the landscape of gastroesophageal reflux research, bringing about positive changes in both patient care and medical understanding.
—> You can find more information about Dr. Jamie Koufman on her website.
Dr. Megan Rossi:
Advancing Our Understanding of Gut Health
Dr. Megan Rossi, a Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist with a PhD in gut health, has continually pushed the boundaries of scientific exploration in understanding the intricate link between our gut and overall health. Her academic journey, from achieving first-class honors in Dietetics to becoming a leading Research Fellow at King's College London, reflects her unwavering commitment to unraveling the complexities of gut health.
Recognition and Awards:
- Megan has published over 50 scientific papers in international, peer-reviewed journals, showcasing her substantial contributions to the field.
- Megan received the British Medical Journal prize in 2017. HRH Princess Anne presented her with the British Nutrition Foundation award, highlighting her impactful contributions to clinical science.
Multi-Faceted Roles:
- As a Research Fellow at King's College London since 2015, Megan spearheads investigations into nutrition-based therapies in gut health. Her research encompasses prebiotics and probiotics, medical diets, plant-based diversity, food additives, and personalized nutrition technologies.
- Megan leads The Gut Health Clinic, offering practical applications of her research and expertise.
- Through her platform @TheGutHealthDoctor, Megan engages the public in discussions around gut health, fostering awareness and education.
- Megan is the author of the Sunday Times bestseller, "Eat Yourself Healthy," and a co-founder of Bio&Me, further extending her influence beyond academia.
Dr. Megan Rossi's roles as a researcher, educator, and advocate exemplify her commitment to advancing our understanding of gut health. Her notable achievements, from academic excellence to public engagement, make her a prominent figure shaping the discourse around the vital connection between nutrition and gut health.
—> You can find more information about Dr. Megan Rossi on the Gut Health Doctor site.
Dr. Asma Khapra:
Championing Women's Digestive Health
Dr. Asma Khapra, an accomplished gastroenterologist hailing from metropolitan Washington, D.C., has distinguished herself in the field with comprehensive expertise in gastroenterology. Specializing in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and Women's Digestive Health, Dr. Khapra's contributions extend beyond clinical practice, encompassing research, education, and leadership.
Research and Publications:
- Dr. Khapra's dedication to advancing knowledge in women's digestive health is evident through her authorship of the AGA GastroSlides Project for Digestive Health and Disease in Women.
- She has actively contributed to national medical meetings, disseminating research findings and insights to the broader medical community.
Recognition and Awards:
- Dr. Khapra's professional peers routinely recognize her as a 'Top Doctor' in the Mid-Atlantic region, with accolades from Arlington Magazine, Northern Virginia Magazine, and Washingtonian Magazine.
- Acknowledged as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, further validating her clinical excellence.
Leadership and Academic Affiliation:
- In 2022, Dr. Khapra took the lead in establishing the Women in GI Network at Gastro Health. This internal network facilitates connections among women gastroenterologists, providing a platform for idea exchange, addressing work challenges, posing questions, and hosting forums for discussing transformative changes.
- Dr. Khapra holds the position of Clinical Assistant Professor at George Washington University Hospital, contributing to medical education.
Dr. Asma Khapra's impactful contributions to gastroenterology, coupled with her leadership in establishing the Women in GI Network, solidify her status as a distinguished and influential figure in the field.
—> You can find more information about Dr. Asma Khapra here and on LinkedIn here.
Molly Pelletier:
The Acid Reflux Dietitian
Molly Pelletier, MS, RD, CDN, stands at the forefront of Gut Health Nutrition as a Registered Dietitian and the visionary Founder of FLORA Nutrition and The FLORA App. With a solid foundation in nutrition science and research, Molly brings a unique perspective to her practice, seamlessly blending cutting-edge GI science with integrative modalities for highly effective nutrition therapy.
Specialization:
- Molly excels in optimizing gut health, employing a holistic, mind-body approach to address the root cause of various gastrointestinal conditions.
- Her expertise spans a range of health areas, including weight management, acid reflux/GERD, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), and gut imbalance.
Holistic Approach:
- What sets Molly apart is her commitment to a holistic, mind-body approach in nutrition therapy. By focusing on both physical and mental aspects, she ensures a comprehensive and effective treatment strategy.
Professional Recognition & Entrepreneurial Ventures:
- Molly's remarkable contributions to gut health nutrition haven't gone unnoticed. The World Gastroenterology Organization recognized her as "2023's Women in GI," acknowledging her outstanding achievements in the field.
- As the Founder of FLORA Nutrition and The FLORA App, Molly pioneers innovative approaches to Gut Health Nutrition, leveraging technology to enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of her services.
Molly Pelletier's role as a trailblazer in gut health nutrition is underscored by her innovative approach, entrepreneurial ventures, and the recognition she has received from the World Gastroenterology Organization. As she continues to bridge cutting-edge science with holistic methodologies, Molly stands as a key figure in advancing the field, empowering individuals to achieve optimal gut health and overall well-being.
—> You can find more information about Molly Pelletier on her website here.
Dr. Michelle Kang Kim:
Advocating for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Dr. Michelle Kang Kim, MD, PhD, stands as a prominent figure in the field of Gastroenterology, making significant contributions through her roles as an active researcher, clinician, and trailblazing leader. As the First Female Chair of Gastroenterology at the Cleveland Clinic, she not only made history but also continues to drive advancements in translational and epidemiologic approaches, with a primary focus on assessing patient outcomes.
Leadership Achievements:- In 2022, Dr. Kim achieved a historic milestone as the Cleveland Clinic's First Female Chair of Gastroenterology, breaking barriers and inspiring change in a field historically dominated by men.
- Dr. Kim holds the distinction of being among the less than 10% of gastroenterology division chiefs nationwide who are female, further emphasizing her trailblazing role.
Research and Advocacy:
- Dr. Kim's research interests extend to the epidemiology of gastrointestinal cancers, with a particular focus on addressing disparities in underserved populations.
- Dr. Kim actively addresses gender disparities within the GI field. Her studies, including web-based questionnaires distributed nationally, reveal the challenges women face, from workplace bias to the impact of the endoscopy suite environment on career decisions.
- With a focus on medical trainees and junior faculty, especially women and underrepresented minorities, Dr. Kim actively supports career development initiatives to address existing disparities.
Dr. Michelle Kang Kim's impactful contributions, historic leadership role, and advocacy for diversity underscore her pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Gastroenterology, setting a precedent for equality and inclusivity.
—> You can find more information about Dr. Michelle Kang Kim here and on LinkedIn here.
Dr. Michelle Hughes:
A Leader in GI Patient Care
Dr. Michelle Hughes, MD, an accomplished Assistant Professor specializing in digestive diseases at the Yale School of Medicine, stands out as a distinguished figure in the field of gastroenterology. With a commitment to comprehensive and compassionate patient care, she has earned recognition for her exceptional accomplishments.
Leadership Recognition:- Dr. Hughes' exceptional contributions have led to her appointment as a member of the ASGE's Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) Class for 2022. This prestigious acknowledgment is reserved for early-career women in gastroenterology, highlighting her potential to shape the future of the field..
Clinical Expertise and Education:
- Dr. Hughes specializes in providing comprehensive and compassionate care for acute gastrointestinal conditions in the inpatient setting. Her expertise extends to a variety of conditions, including GI bleeding, inflammatory bowel diseases, nutritional disorders, and diagnostic workup of GI tract malignancies.
- Dr. Hughes is actively involved in medical education at multiple levels, including students, residents, and fellows. Her commitment to nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals underscores her dedication to the advancement of gastroenterology.
Dr. Michelle Hughes exemplifies excellence in gastroenterology, combining clinical expertise, leadership recognition, and a commitment to advancing the field.
—> You can find more information about Dr. Michelle Hughes here and on Instagram here.
Innovation, Resilience & Dedication in Shaping the Future of Gastrointestinal Healthcare
In the dynamic realm of digestive health, these exceptional women have not only broken barriers but have significantly influenced gastroenterology, acid reflux management, and gut health.From Dr. Amy Oxentenko's leadership at Mayo Clinic to Dr. Maria Abreu's groundbreaking research in inflammatory bowel diseases, and Dr. Jennifer Christie's role as the president of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, these trailblazers showcase innovation, resilience, and dedication in shaping the future of gastrointestinal healthcare. Their collective impact underscores the transformative power of individual contributions, leaving an indelible mark on patient care, research, and advocacy for women in digestive health.