BOBÌåÓý

BOBÌåÓý thoracic oncologist Aline Fares, MD, is passionate about delivering kind, personalized care to patients with lung cancer. She finds the most meaning in building long-term, trusting relationships with her patients.

Dr. Fares, who recently joined the University of Florida College of Medicine as an associate professor, completed her training in thoracic malignancies at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Canada, which is affiliated with the University of Toronto. She’s also been a clinical assistant professor and medical oncologist at the University of British Columbia.

Her clinical and research interests focus on lung cancer and thoracic malignancies. Her work spans from molecular studies to public health initiatives, always with the goal of advancing equity in cancer care.

She strives to provide the same high-quality, thoughtful patient care she would want for herself or her family. Her approach is grounded in empathy, listening and always striving for excellence.

Get to know her in our Q&A:

Q: How did you end up going into medicine and why did you decide on your specialty in oncology?

A: Both my parents are physicians who devoted themselves wholeheartedly to caring for patients and the community. Growing up, I admired their passion, compassion and unwavering dedication. Their example inspired me to follow in their footsteps and pursue a career in medicine.

I've always cherished meaningful connections with people, which naturally drew me to oncology, a field that emphasizes profound and lasting patient-physician relationships. Building these connections is the most rewarding and fulfilling aspect of my work.

Q: What are your research interests?

A: My clinical and research interests primarily center around lung cancer and thoracic malignancies. My research has two key focuses: first, exploring genomic drivers of lung cancer, examining their prognostic significance and predicting therapeutic responses; and second, investigating smoking as a major cause of lung cancer, along with increasing awareness and understanding of its specific impacts.

Q: What is one thing you would like patients to know about how you approach patient care?

A: I want my patients to know that I consistently strive to deliver the highest quality of care, always putting myself in their shoes. My goal is excellence, compassion and empathy in every encounter, ensuring each patient feels deeply cared for and understood.

Q: What is one thing in this field that gives you hope right now?

A: I see hope everywhere in oncology today, from innovative treatments and breakthroughs in targeted therapies to significant advancements in diagnostic technologies. The continuous progress in our field constantly fuels my optimism and commitment.

Q: What do you like to do outside of work?

A: Outside of medicine, I am passionate about physical exercise and healthy nutrition, both of which have been lifelong pursuits. This passion also influences how I care for my patients, as I strongly advocate for healthier lifestyles and support them in making positive, impactful changes.