GET TO KNOW YOUR LEADERSHIP
Abbie Begnaud, MD, FCCP
Read through a Q&A with one of the CHEST Network leaders, Lung Cancer Section Chair, Abbie Begnaud, MD, FCCP.
August 25, 2022
Where do you work?
I work at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities and the University of Minnesota Health. In Minnesota, we enjoy better than average health outcomes overall but have serious disparities, especially for our Indigenous and Black Minnesotans. I am passionate about improving health equity, especially in lung cancer.
What are your research interests and how does this apply to your position within the Networks?
My research is focused on improving uptake and benefit of lung cancer screening, including management of incidental findings.
How did you become interested and involved in the Thoracic Oncology and Chest Procedures Network?
I followed my heroes Gerard Silvestri, Nichole Tanner, Lynn Tanoue, and M. Patricia Rivera to get to the Thoracic Oncology and Chest Procedures Network. I was invited to a business meeting many years ago, and I was hooked. (I didn’t know they were open, and you don’t need an invitation, so I guess that makes me a bit like a vampire!)
What clinical research is most interesting to you right now?
Dissemination and implementation of lung cancer screening is captivating my imagination right now; there is a lot of work to be done and a lot of room for improvement, so I will have plenty to keep me busy.
What are your hobbies?
Since 2020, my hobbies have evolved to spending time with my pandemic toddler, using the Peloton app without the equipment, keeping up with friends on Marco Polo, and watching way too much television.
What is something you cannot live without (after family and friends)?
I cannot live without an abundance of beverages and beverage containers (tea, sparkling water, kombucha, cold brew coffee, plant-based milks, etc). My poor husband is constantly trying to Marie Kondo our drink vessel cabinet, and I just can’t part with any of them!
Is there anything else you’d like to share with your Network peers?
I love working with and supporting colleagues and trainees, especially my Thoracic Oncology and Chest Procedures peeps—don’t hesitate to reach out!
MORE ABOUT THORACIC ONCOLOGY AND CHEST PROCEDURES NETWORK »
JOIN THIS NETWORK »
Questions about this Network? Contact networks@chestnet.org.