SUMMARY
Gerardo Colon-Otero, M.D., is a hematologist-oncologist who also conducts research on breast cancer and gynecologic malignancies, including ovarian cancer, uterine cancer and cervical cancer.
Dr. Colon-Otero collaborates with other scientists at Mayo Clinic to identify new treatments aimed at overcoming resistance to standard cancer treatment. He is investigating genetic differences that may contribute to worse outcomes in different segments of the population affected by these cancers.
In addition, Dr. Colon-Otero collaborates with community groups to develop community-based interventions to broaden access to cancer screening and cancer research for underserved populations. Dr. Colon-Otero also is actively involved in training medical students, residents and fellows.
Focus areas
- Breast cancer.
- Gynecologic cancer.
- Overcoming treatment resistance.
- Improving cancer healthcare for underserved communities.
- panding access to clinical trials.
- Training the next generation of scientists.
Significance to patient care
Patients with breast cancer and gynecologic cancer often develop resistance to standard cancer treatment. Dr. Colon-Otero is studying the reasons behind this treatment resistance. He works with other scientists to create new treatments that overcome the challenge of resistance. He and his collaborators have identified new drug combinations that are effective against ovarian cancer and are studying how they could help treat other cancers.
Dr. Colon-Otero also is studying ways to improve access to healthcare services and clinical trials. Some groups, such as Black and Hispanic populations, have worse outcomes in cancer treatment. Dr. Colon-Otero is working with community groups to make sure everyone has access to cancer screenings, healthcare and clinical trials.
Professional highlights
- Mayo Clinic:
- Clinical Trials Award, Clinical Research Coordinator Executive Council, 2024.
- Decentralized Clinical Trial Award, 2023.
- Principal investigator grant, Novartis, 2014-2024.
- Co-investigator training grant, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, 2016-2020.
- President, Florida Society of Clinical Oncology, 2012-2013.