Felicia Marie Knaul is an internationally recognized leader in global health, health systems, and health economics, known for her work on reducing inequities in care. She is Associate of the Chancellor at UCLA, a Distinguished Professor of Medicine, Senior Advisor to the Dean of the David Geffen School of Medicine, Senior Advisor to the President of UCLA Health, and a member of the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center. Her research and policy work have influenced health reform and improved conditions for vulnerable populations in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in Latin America.
A breast cancer survivor, Dr. Knaul founded and serves as President of Tómatelo a Pecho, a Mexican civil society organization originally focused on breast cancer and now expanded to women’s health and health system strengthening, which has trained thousands of primary care professionals since 2008. She has founded and led multiple global research networks, and currently serves as Co-Chair of The Lancet Commissions on Gender-Based Violence and on Cancer and Health Systems. Her career bridges research, advocacy, and policy, with a sustained focus on equity, access, and dignity in health care.
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.
