Andre Ilbawi is one of the world’s most influential voices in global cancer control and health-systems equity. As the Lead for Cancer Control at the World Health Organization, he has shaped the global agenda on cancer prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, and palliative care across more than 190 countries. His leadership has been central to the development and implementation of WHO’s flagship initiatives, including the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer, Cervical Cancer Elimination Strategy, and the Noncommunicable Diseases (NCD) Global Monitoring Framework.
A surgeon by training and a systems thinker by conviction, Dr. Ilbawi has emerged as a key architect of the modern global cancer policy landscape. He works at the intersection of epidemiology, economics, health equity, and implementation science—ensuring that the world’s most vulnerable populations are not left behind as innovations accelerate in high-income settings. His visible advocacy for access, affordability, and accountability has made him one of the most respected and catalytic figures in global oncology. Dr. Ilbawi is widely recognized for uniting governments, UN agencies, clinicians, civil society, and industry partners behind shared strategies to reduce global cancer disparities.
The 100 Most Influential People in Oncology in 2025 recognizes the changemakers in cancer care who have helped shape current practice in oncology and continue to drive innovation and research towards better outcomes, advocacy, philanthropy, leadership and education. For the many deserving individuals not mentioned in this list, we will continue to acknowledge, honor and elevate your voices in our daily publications from across the world.
See the full list of The 100 Influential People in Oncology in 2025 and stay tuned for the results of special category nominations to be announced.
