Andrea Cercek is the founder and co-director of the Center for Young Onset Colorectal and Gastrointestinal Cancers at MSK, the first clinic worldwide dedicated exclusively to patients under 50 with GI cancers. The center delivers coordinated, holistic care addressing quality of life, fertility preservation, survivorship, and the long-term effects of cancer, while also leading research into why GI cancers are rising in younger populations and how to improve early detection and prevention. Specializing in gastrointestinal cancers, with a particular focus on colorectal, appendiceal, and bile duct (cholangiocarcinoma) cancers, she serves as Section Head of Colorectal Cancer at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK).
Recognized among TIME’s 100 Health, she is internationally known for leading a groundbreaking immunotherapy trial in early-stage mismatch repair–deficient rectal cancer, in which all patients achieved complete clinical responses with checkpoint inhibitors alone, avoiding surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. First reported in 2022, these results have influenced global practice and led to an FDA Breakthrough Therapy designation for the regimen. She has been.
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.
