Katherine Van Loon Appointed as Editor-in-Chief of JCO Global Oncology

In a world where cancer cases are projected to skyrocket—reaching an estimated 35 million annually by 2050—Dr. Katherine Van Loon has stepped into a crucial new role. As of February 1, she officially became the new Editor-in-Chief of JCO Global Oncology (JCO GO), bringing with her a clear mission: to amplify diverse voices, advance equitable research, and broaden access to cancer care worldwide.

A gastrointestinal cancer specialist and professor at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), Dr. Van Loon is deeply aware of the challenges facing global oncology. According to the World Health Organization, cancer incidence is set to grow by 77% over the next few decades—a surge fueled by a complex mix of factors, including social determinants of health (SDOH) and persistent inequities in care access.

Source: ucsfhealth.org

“As editor-in-chief, my primary objective will be to amplify the voices of those on the front lines of global cancer care and research. I aim to reduce structural barriers to publication, with the goal of promoting a broader and more inclusive forum for knowledge exchange for cancer researchers and practitioners across the world.” – says Katherine Van Loon

A New Chapter for JCO Global Oncology

In her new position, Dr. Van Loon aims to steer JCO GO toward becoming an even stronger voice in global cancer equity. This direction aligns closely with ASCO’s recent call for action to ensure more inclusive and representative cancer research, especially in underserved regions and populations. Her vision includes highlighting work that directly addresses the unique needs of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)—where the majority of cancer cases occur and where mortality rates remain alarmingly high.

“It is both an honor and tremendous privilege to steward JCO Global Oncology at a time when the focus on the global burden of cancer is rapidly intensifying. ASCO and our international members have a tremendous opportunity to work collectively to reduce disparities in global cancer outcomes, and I expect we will see tremendous progress over the next decade. As this field continues to accelerate, it will be imperative that the journal is able to keep pace and disseminate lessons learned from around the world for maximal impact.” – she said.

A Career Rooted in Global Health

Dr. Van Loon is not new to global oncology. At UCSF, she leads the Global Cancer Program within the Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center. Her research has focused on the epidemiology of gastrointestinal cancers both in the U.S. and abroad, always with a strong emphasis on improving outcomes in vulnerable communities.

What sets the UCSF Global Cancer Program apart—and something she hopes to bring into the editorial mission at JCO GO—is a strong commitment to equitable, locally driven partnerships.

Breaking Down Barriers in Publishing

A key part of her agenda is tackling the systemic hurdles that prevent many oncology professionals—especially those from resource-limited settings—from contributing to the global research conversation. Whether it’s the cost of publishing, language barriers, or the lack of mentorship in scientific writing, Dr. Van Loon is determined to create more inclusive pathways for publication.

She envisions the journal spotlighting work in areas like implementation science, resource-adapted treatment strategies, and patient-centered care. Topics such as financial toxicity, effective communication, and infrastructure-building will take center stage alongside more traditional research.

A Commitment to Mentorship and Community

Dr. Van Loon is especially passionate about supporting early-career researchers and clinicians who are new to the publishing world. She encourages aspiring authors to engage with the journal team, ask questions, and explore available resources to bring their research to light.

Her excitement about the journey ahead is matched by her admiration for the journal’s Editorial Board. “We have an incredibly dedicated team, and I’m thrilled to collaborate with them to grow the journal’s impact and reach. There’s so much promise in what lies ahead.”

Her appointment has drawn strong praise from ASCO leadership.

“Dr. Van Loon’s experience, skills, and passion for reducing global disparities in cancer care make her the ideal leader to build on JCO Global Oncology’s strong foundation. She will be instrumental in helping us all better understand and address the unique challenges faced by healthcare professionals providing cancer care in under-resourced areas.” – said Dr. Clifford A. Hudis, CEO of ASCO.

Looking Forward

As Dr. Van Loon begins this new chapter with JCO Global Oncology, her vision is clear: to use the journal as a catalyst for change—where knowledge flows across borders, where every researcher has a seat at the table, and where cancer care becomes more just and accessible for all.

OncoDaily extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Katherine Van Loon on her appointment as Editor-in-Chief of JCO Global Oncology.