MD, MPH, FACS
Professor and Interim Chief, Surgical Oncology
Adjunct Assistant Professor, Health Policy and Management
UNC-Chapel Hill
Cancer Prevention and Control
Gastrointestinal Oncology Program, Melanoma Program
Area of Interest
Globally, Stitzenberg’s research seeks to define ways to facilitate delivery of quality, comprehensive cancer care for all patients. She is involved in local and national projects focused on optimizing delivery of the most effective cancer therapies. Using geographic information systems and social network analysis, her work has examined issues surrounding patient travel burden, access to care, and care coordination. These projects seek to identify a balance between minimizing barriers for patients and optimizing clinical outcomes through effective care coordination.
Although her research addresses multidisciplinary cancer care for all types of cancer, her clinical focus is on gastrointestinal/colorectal cancer and melanoma/advanced skin malignancies.
Awards and Honors
- UNC Health Care and UNC Faculty Physicians Award for Carolina Care Excellence, 2016-2024
- Outstanding Mentor of the Year, UNC General Surgery Chief Class, 2023
- ASCO Leadership Development Program (LDP), 2019
- UNC Department of Surgery Medical Student Teaching Award, 2018
- Representative, State of NC Advisory Committee on Cancer Coordination and Control, 2012
- American Society of Clinical Oncology Cancer Foundation Merit Award, 2009
- Finalist, American College of Surgeons Resident Award for Exemplary Teaching, 2006
- Surgery Faculty Scholarship Award, University of North Carolina, 2004
- Housestaff Award, University of North Carolina, 2002
- Alpha Omega Alpha, University of North Carolina, 1999
News and Stories
What young people need to know about colorectal cancer
Cases of colorectal cancer in adults under 55 are on the rise. Surgical oncologist Karyn Stitzenberg, MD, shares what younger people need to know to protect themselves against this concerning trend.
UNC Hospitals recognized for commitment to quality cancer care
The American College of Surgeons has named UNC Hospitals as an ACS Surgical Quality Partner for participating in two of its quality programs.
