CNN has selected Dr. Patricia Gordon as one of their 10 Heroes of 2021. (CNN Heroes are those dedicated to a cause that makes the world a better place and make a significant difference in people’s lives.)
Dr. Gordon founded the non-profit organization CureCervicalCancer, whose mission is to prevent cervical cancer in poor parts of the world, where most cases occur. More than 350,000 women die from this almost completely preventable cancer each year. Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among women in the developing world.
In a press release, Dr. Gordon wrote, “After practicing radiation oncology in Beverly Hills for 27 consecutive years and being a women’s health champion, I just wanted to do more. My proudest medical achievement is starting CureCervicalCancer and making a real difference in the lives of women around the world who need it most.”
CureCervicalCancer uses the “See and Treat” method, which is appropriate for low-resource countries. It involves application of vinegar, which makes the lesions visible and immediately treatable with cryotherapy or thermocoagulation.
CureCervicalCancer also trains local healthcare professionals to screen and treat women for precervical cancer and has established 106 sustainable and ongoing clinics in Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Haiti, Guatemala, Vietnam as well as training programs in rural China.
Read more about Dr. Gordon’s work on the CNN website. And watch the CNN video of Dr. Gordon and her work at clinics in Kenya.
Related Links
The New York Times: The HPV Vaccine Prevents Cancer, but Most Kids Don’t Receive It, by Jane Brody, Dec. 13, 2021.
WHO Overview: Cervical Cancer
Angels in Medicine: Grounds for Health: Using Vinegar to Save Women’s Lives