Kara Cicero, MD, MPH

“What I find valuable is being there for people through some of the hardest times of their lives. I learn a lot from patients. I think they are amazing.”

— Dr. Cicero

What brought you to oncology?

Treatment for multiple myeloma and related disorders is advancing quite rapidly - it’s an exciting time to be a part of the field, as patient outcomes are improving through these new therapies and treatments.   I also think the pathophysiology of the disease and the science behind it is very interesting.

Due to the chronic nature of multiple myeloma, I appreciate that I can develop relationships with patients and their families over the long term while we manage their illness. 

What do you hope it’s like for a patient to work with you?

I want patients to feel like they are a part of their care — that they do have power and a say in how things go, based on their preferences and goals. In the case of multiple myeloma, personalized treatment options and management are possible.

I see patients as integral to every decision. I want them to truly understand their diagnosis and be informed of their options. I aim to be approachable and want patients to feel comfortable asking me questions.

Provider Background

Area of Clinical Practice
Multiple myeloma and related plasma cell disorders

I am a hematologist who sees patients at the South Lake Union Clinic.

I am interested in global oncology and cancer disparities research to advance health equity. I led an international, multidisciplinary research team to determine the prevalence, characteristics and risk factors of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) in an understudied population that is also most likely to be affected. This project took place in Eswatini (previously known as Swaziland) and was based upon an exploratory analysis I conducted on MGUS in South Africa.