Edith Mitchell

American oncologist and retired United States Air Force brigadier general

Edith P. Mitchell

Edith Peterson Mitchell is an American oncologist and retired United States Air Force brigadier general. She is known for her contributions to the field of oncology, particularly in the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers, and for her advocacy for health equity and diversity in medicine.

Early life and education

Edith Mitchell was born in Tennessee, where she developed an early interest in science and medicine. She pursued her undergraduate studies at Tennessee State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree. She then attended Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, where she obtained her MD degree.

Medical career

After completing her medical degree, Mitchell pursued a residency in internal medicine followed by a fellowship in medical oncology. Her clinical and research interests have focused on the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers, including colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and gastric cancer.

Mitchell has held various academic and clinical positions throughout her career. She is a Clinical Professor of Medicine and Medical Oncology at the Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She has also served as the Director of the Center to Eliminate Cancer Disparities and the Associate Director for Diversity Affairs at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center.

Military service

In addition to her medical career, Mitchell has had a distinguished career in the United States Air Force. She joined the Air Force in 1978 and rose through the ranks to become a brigadier general. Her service included roles in medical command and leadership, and she has been recognized for her contributions to military medicine.

Advocacy and leadership

Mitchell is a prominent advocate for health equity and has worked to address health disparities in cancer care. She has been involved in numerous initiatives aimed at improving access to care for underserved populations and increasing diversity within the medical profession.

She has served in leadership roles in several professional organizations, including the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), where she has been involved in efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in oncology.

Awards and honors

Throughout her career, Mitchell has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to medicine and her service in the military. These include recognition from professional societies, academic institutions, and military organizations.

Related pages

• Oncology
• Health equity
• United States Air Force
• Gastrointestinal cancer