Safia K. Ahmed, M.D.

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SUMMARY

Safia K. Ahmed, M.D., is a radiation oncologist whose research focuses on pediatric cancers, bone and soft tissue sarcomas, and particle therapy.

Focus areas

• Alternative approaches to number of radiation treatments delivered. Dr. Ahmed led a Mayo Clinic enterprisewide clinical trial evaluating a shorter course of radiation therapy for people with extremity soft tissue sarcoma. These individuals were recommended for radiation therapy before surgery. The aim of this study was to determine whether a shorter course of radiation therapy is safe and effective.
• Novel radiation therapy techniques. Dr. Ahmed investigates the use of particle therapy and alternative treatment planning techniques, such as spatially fractionated radiation therapy, for people with bone and soft tissue sarcomas. These investigations are designed to evaluate whether these approaches improve outcomes for radioresistant and advanced sarcoma.
• Cooperative group research. Dr. Ahmed is actively involved in pediatric and adult sarcoma research projects and clinical trials. These projects and trials take place through national cooperative groups, including the Children's Oncology Group and NRG Oncology.

Significance to patient care

Dr. Ahmed's research is designed to improve treatment outcomes, reduce side effects, and optimize the radiation therapy experience for individuals and family members.

Professional highlights

• Radiation chair, Bone Tumor Committee, Children's Oncology Group, 2022-present.
• Education chair, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center Pediatric Oncology Disease Group, Mayo Clinic, 2022-present.
• Enterprise Radiation Oncology, American Society for Radiation Oncology:
  • Chair, Sarcoma Disease Group, 2022-present.
  • Chair, Pediatric Disease Group, 2020-present.
• Member, Sarcoma Education Committee, American Society for Radiation Oncology, 2021-present.
• Associate section editor, Advances in Radiation Oncology, 2020-present.