Bente Mikkelsen is a global health leader specializing in cancer prevention, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), and health system strengthening. She serves as Director of Global Engagement and Strategies at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where she supports international efforts to improve access to childhood cancer care and advance global pediatric oncology policy. Prior to joining St. Jude, she served at the World Health Organization (WHO) as Director of the Department of Noncommunicable Diseases, where she led global strategies on implementation of the WHO Global Action Plan for NCDs and previously held a directorship at the WHO Regional Office for Europe. She has also held senior leadership roles within the Danish Health Authority with a focus on international policy frameworks for cancer prevention and access to care.
Dr. Mikkelsen has played a central role in advancing the global NCD agenda, including leading UN High-Level Meetings on NCDs. Her work has been instrumental in strengthening universal health coverage, promoting integrated, people-centred care, and expanding access to prevention and treatment in low- and middle-income countries. She currently serves on the Board of the World Diabetes Foundation, is Chair of the Advocacy Steering Committee of the World Heart Federation, and is a Senior Advisor at Oslo Science City. She played a key role in ‘80 Years of the UN: The Role of First Ladies and Gentlemen – Unite for Peace and Prosperity’ where for the first time in history, at the 80th UN General Assembly in 2025, regional organisations of First Ladies and Gentlemen gathered together to heal divisions, champion human dignity, and address humanitarian crises.
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.
