Zeena Salman is a pediatric oncologist whose work spans childhood cancer, global health, and refugee health. Early exposure to stark global inequities in pediatric cancer care led her to step away from a traditional academic career and dedicate her work to children in conflict zones and low-resource settings. For more than two decades, Dr. Salman has led capacity-building, clinical care, and emergency response efforts in collaboration with organizations such as the World Health Organization, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, SAFER and the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund. Dr. Salman served as medical adviser for the establishment of the first pediatric cancer department in Gaza. She is the co-founder of HEAL Palestine, advancing integrated care and support for children with cancer and chronic illness.
Her work has had a profound impact on Palestinian children with cancer, strengthening care delivery in public oncology departments under siege, and has extended to humanitarian missions supporting children in Lebanon, Jordan, Morocco, and, most recently, Ukraine. In recognition of her service, she received the Humanitarian and Civic Excellence Award (2022). Dr. Salman’s guiding vision is global equity in pediatric cancer care, ensuring that every child, regardless of geography, conflict, or socioeconomic status, has access to life-saving treatment.
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.
