Israeli Medical Genetics Professor Lena Sagi-Dain Champions Curiosity and Patient-Centered Care

Professor Lena Sagi-Dain, head of the Israeli Society of Medical Genetics and a practicing gynecologist, is featured in the Jack Kuba project "Women Who Inspire Us." Sagi-Dain, who has authored over 100 scientific articles, did not initially plan a career in medicine, intending to study mathematics at the Technion. However, a delay in her academic reserve program led her to enlist in the army, after which she applied to multiple university faculties. She chose medicine over computer science, driven by a higher entrance score, and found herself drawn to gynecology due to the joy of delivering healthy babies.

Her specialization led her to genetics, a field she initially knew little about but embraced with her guiding principle: "Why not try? If I don't like it, I'll change." This philosophy has shaped her career, pushing her into continuous learning and adaptation within the rapidly evolving field of genetics. Sagi-Dain's scientific journey began with research into episiotomies, where she discovered a lack of evidence supporting the routine procedure, leading to a significant reduction in its practice. This experience highlighted the power of research to change medical practices for the better.

She also focuses on patient communication, particularly regarding genetic screening results. Sagi-Dain advocates for clear, percentage-based communication over ambiguous terms like "high risk," citing a study where women expressed distress over how results were delivered. Her research also addresses weight stigma in healthcare, revealing that patients with obesity often avoid crucial screenings like mammograms and Pap tests due to negative interactions with medical staff. She emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to approach weight discussions with sensitivity and neutrality, prioritizing the patient's medical needs.

Sagi-Dain, who became a professor at 43, sees her title as a means to be taken more seriously. She values curiosity and persistence over ambition, believing that a positive outlook and engaging work are key to success. She also champions women's freedom to choose their own path, rejecting societal expectations about appearance and behavior. Her core message is that women should live authentically, embracing change and self-determination.