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Renuka Iyer Takes the Helm as Chief Medical Officer of NCCN

In a significant development for cancer care and research, Dr. Renuka Iyer has been appointed the new Chief Medical Officer of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). This announcement comes as NCCN continues its mission to provide evidence-based and consensus-driven guidelines that improve cancer prevention and treatment across the globe.

Dr. Iyer, a recognized leader in oncology, currently holds prominent positions at the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, which is among the NCCN member institutions. She serves as the Chief of Gastrointestinal Oncology and the Deputy Chair of the Department of Medicine at Roswell Park. Additionally, Dr. Iyer is also a professor of medicine at the Jacobs School of Medicine at the University at Buffalo.

A Dedication to Oncology

Dr. Iyer's extensive career in oncology is highlighted by her commitment to innovation and quality care. Her journey began with a fellowship in medical oncology at Roswell Park after earning her medical degree from Grant Medical College in Mumbai. She further refined her expertise through her residency at Weill Cornell Medical College. Certified in both internal medicine and oncology, Dr. Iyer is a member of numerous professional organizations and has received various honors, including accolades from the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society and the American Cancer Society.

Her research primarily focuses on developing new treatments for rare cancers, immunotherapy, biomarkers, and enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients. Her commitment to these areas aligns perfectly with NCCN’s objective to set high standards in cancer care.

NCCN’s Vision and Dr. Iyer’s Role

In her new position, Dr. Iyer will take a leading role in overseeing the NCCN Guidelines, which provide comprehensive, expert-driven protocols on how to manage nearly every type of cancer. Updating these guidelines, which are available in both print and digital formats—including the interactive NCCN Guidelines Navigator™—is a critical aspect of her responsibilities. All guidelines are subject to updates at least annually, with many being revised even more frequently to ensure they reflect the latest findings in cancer research.

With prior experience as a committee member overseeing NCCN’s Clinical Practice Guidelines, Dr. Iyer is well situated to guide the strategic oversight of the organization’s oncological recommendations.

Impact on Global Cancer Care

Dr. Iyer is keenly aware of the impact that the NCCN’s resources can have not just in the US but worldwide. "I am honored to be chosen for this prestigious role and look forward to advancing the mission of NCCN at a time when there are many opportunities for innovation in how we provide care and information to our patients," she stated during her appointment.

As NCCN marks its 30th anniversary, Dr. Iyer's leadership is expected to bring forth new advancements in oncology and contribute to the accessibility and effectiveness of cancer treatment globally. NCCN’s guidelines are recognized as clinical standards, making Dr. Iyer’s role pivotal to improving cancer care standards and ensuring they meet the evolving needs of patients everywhere.

Conclusion

Dr. Renuka Iyer will assume her role as Chief Medical Officer on February 26, 2026. Her leadership promises to enhance cancer care through evidence-based practices and innovative approaches, reinforcing the NCCN's commitment to serving not only patients but also healthcare providers in the ongoing fight against cancer.

For further information about the National Comprehensive Cancer Network and its mission, please visit NCCN.org.