Dr. Drucy Borowitz Transforms Cystic Fibrosis Care Worldwide

Dr. Drucy Borowitz has been a pivotal figure in the fight against cystic fibrosis (CF), transforming treatment and care for patients globally. Since moving to Buffalo, New York, in 1988, she has dedicated her career to improving the lives of individuals affected by this genetic disorder, which was once considered a death sentence for children.

In her role as the leader of the Cystic Fibrosis Center at Women & Children’s Hospital of Buffalo, Borowitz has overseen significant advancements in CF care over the past 25 years. She recalls a time when “people died in childhood or young adulthood,” highlighting how far the medical community has come. Today, thanks to innovative therapies, almost no CF patients require hospitalization.

In 2009, her center made history by enrolling the first patient in the world for a clinical trial of Ivacaftor, the first CFTR modulator designed to correct the defective protein responsible for CF. “If it hadn’t worked, it would have meant that we were going down a blind alley,” Borowitz stated, reflecting on the high stakes of that initial trial. The success of Ivacaftor paved the way for the development of Trikafta (ETI), a therapy currently enabling 93% of CF patients to enjoy longer and healthier lives.

The impact of Borowitz’s work extends beyond Buffalo, as noted by Dr. Bob Beall, former president of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. “Drucy had an impact not only in Buffalo, but worldwide in terms of the care practices she helped to develop,” he remarked, emphasizing her compassion and dedication to every patient.

Borowitz’s research at the University at Buffalo’s Jacobs School of Medicine has significantly advanced understanding of the role of nutrition in CF. She played a crucial role in standardizing enzyme replacement therapy, ensuring consistent, high-quality care for patients across the United States. Her approach has always blended rigorous scientific inquiry with deep empathy.

“Families who have a child with CF really just had an incredible challenge,” she explained. The relentless daily treatments required to keep children healthy have transformed into a more manageable reality. Once a disease that rarely allowed patients to reach adulthood, CF now sees many individuals living well into their 50s and beyond.

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation now estimates that the median survival for all individuals with CF in the United States is over 56 years of age. Borowitz noted, “Our expectation for children and young infants who are able to start modulator drugs early in life is that they will have a full lifespan.”

Despite these advancements, Borowitz remains dedicated to the 7% of patients whose specific genetic mutations do not respond to existing therapies. “Could you imagine if you were drowning and everyone else got a lifeboat that you didn’t?” she asked, underscoring her commitment to continue working for all patients.

One of those patients is Briana Dewitt, who has been under Borowitz’s care since infancy. Dewitt describes Borowitz as a source of hope throughout her journey with CF. “Obviously she’s brilliant. But really it’s the connection she makes with her patients,” she shared, expressing gratitude for the support she has received over the years.

Now retired from clinical practice, Borowitz spends her time mentoring emerging researchers and contributing to ongoing studies related to digestive health and gene therapy for CF. “There are still problems to be solved,” she stated, acknowledging the ongoing challenges faced by adults with CF who are not completely well.

In recognition of her monumental contributions to CF care, Dr. Borowitz will receive the Breath of Life Excellence in Care Award at the WNY Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s annual gala, Rock the Red Carpet, scheduled for November 8, 2025, at The Powerhouse in Buffalo. Despite her accolades and international recognition, she remains modest about her work. “What we do is a team sport,” Borowitz emphasized. “There is no one person that can take all of the credit — so I’m taking the credit for the team.”

Dr. Drucy Borowitz’s unwavering dedication to her patients and groundbreaking research has not only enhanced the quality of life for those with cystic fibrosis but has also provided hope for a future where living with CF is more manageable than ever. Her legacy as a leader in science and service continues to inspire both patients and healthcare professionals alike.