Kurdish Doctor Recognized as
Exemplary Surgeon by US College
Rewan Hussein, a specialist in breast cancer and general surgery, has been recognized by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) as one of 10 exemplary female doctors worldwide in 2025, marking the first time a Kurdish physician has received the honor
Speaking to Kurdistan 24 on Monday, Hussein said the ACS annually selects a number of women surgeons in September to highlight their impact and inspire newly graduated doctors to pursue careers in surgery.
“Annually, the American College of Surgeons selects a number of female doctors worldwide as exemplary physicians. The person must be a member of the American College of Surgeons, be active, and have an impact in their field of work,” she explained.
Hussein described the recognition as especially meaningful given her Kurdish background. “To be chosen as one of these doctors, from the Middle East, and as a Kurd, is a special feeling, because no Kurdish doctor has been chosen before,” she said. She added that each of the 10 designated doctors “has a success story.”
Hussein, who specializes in breast cancer treatment, has her own story of resilience. In 2023, she was diagnosed with breast cancer but successfully overcame the disease, later resuming her medical career.
In recent years, the ACS and other international medical bodies have increased efforts to promote diversity and gender representation in surgical specialties, historically dominated by men. Many female surgeons around the world face challenges including long training hours, societal expectations, lack of mentorship, and limited visibility.
Recognitions like that awarded to Hussein are intended to address some of these barriers by showcasing role models who combine clinical excellence with leadership.
Hussein’s experience with winning her own cancer battle adds another layer to her achievement. Survivorship in Kurdish regions is improving but still faces obstacles such as cultural stigma, economic costs, and the psychological impact of illness.
Her recovery and return to surgical practice give hope to many patients and medical peers. It also demonstrates how personal experience can inform better patient care, empathy, and advocacy.
Through such honors, doctors like Hussein often gain access to wider professional networks, research collaboration, and funding opportunities, which can help bring new skills and technologies back to their regions.
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