The Basser Center for BRCA at the Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania has declared Kenneth Offit, MD, MPH, as the recipient of their 2023 Bassar Global Prize. "It is an honor to be recognized with this award from the Basser Center, which is making a difference for patients with inherited BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations across the world," said Kenneth Offit.

Offit holds degrees from Harvard University and presently serves as the Robert and Kate Niehaus Chair in Inherited Cancer Genomics. He also fulfills the role of chief of Clinical Genetics Service at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK). Offit's significant contribution was leading the first policy statement of the American Society of Clinic Oncology post-identification of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, Penn Medicine press release informs.

The Basser Global Prize consists of $100,000 to support research efforts connected with BRCA1 and BRCA2, a Basser sculpture, and $10,000 personal winnings. This annual accolade recognizes scientists who have notably advanced research and understanding of these gene mutations known for increasing risks of breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancers.

A distinct aspect of Offit’s research was his connection between BRCA genetic research with mutations in Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry's genetics. He identified the most common mutation linked with increased risks across several different cancers.

Finally, Susan Domchek, Basser Center’s executive director expressed her delight in honoring Dr. Offit for his pioneering work in clinical cancer genetics. She praised him for translating his research into preventive oncology practice that assists clinicians' education and aids those carrying BRCA gene mutations understand their predisposition towards cancer.