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Renuka Iyer, MD: Our New Chief Medical Officer at NCCN

In a significant move for the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), renowned oncologist Dr. Renuka Iyer has been appointed as the Chief Medical Officer. This strategic hiring promises to enhance the organization's mission of setting high standards for cancer care globally. Dr. Iyer has an impressive history of leadership within the oncology field and brings a wealth of experience from her position at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, which is also a member institution of NCCN.

A Journey of Excellence in Oncology

Dr. Iyer is not just a name in oncology; she has dedicated her career to cancer treatment and research. Holding a professorship in oncology at Roswell Park, she plays several leadership roles, including Section Chief of Gastrointestinal Oncology and Vice Chair of Faculty Affairs within the Department of Medicine. Furthermore, she serves as Medical Director for Medical Oncology across the Roswell Park Care Network, demonstrating her commitment to multi-faceted cancer care.

Educated at Grant Medical College in Mumbai, Dr. Iyer complemented her medical education with a fellowship in medical oncology at Roswell Park. With board certifications in both internal medicine and oncology, she is an active member of several professional societies and has received numerous awards from esteemed organizations such as the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society and the American Cancer Society.

The Role of CMO at NCCN

The NCCN stands as a beacon of hope for many, providing evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for cancer management and care. As the new CMO, Dr. Iyer will have a pivotal role in shaping the NCCN Guidelines program that consists of 90 various guidelines addressing treatment, prevention, and supportive care for numerous cancer types. These guidelines are vital, being updated annually or even more frequently to ensure they reflect the most current research and therapeutic options available.

Crystal S. Denlinger, CEO of NCCN, praised Dr. Iyer's appointment, emphasizing her profound commitment to improving research and clinical treatments for patients worldwide. Her prior involvement with the NCCN as a member of the Guidelines Steering Committee since 2023 has positioned her favorably to lead the organization into its next chapter.

Future Directions

With her new appointment effective February 26, 2026, Dr. Iyer is set to oversee many significant aspects within NCCN. Her responsibilities will extend to clinical leadership concerning the guidelines, as well as managing the NCCN's educational initiatives and overseeing the JNCCN — the Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network.

Dr. Iyer’s mission will involve enhancing access to quality care while integrating new technologies and innovative strategies into the NCCN’s operations. Her excitement about this role is palpable as she mentioned, "I am honored to be chosen for this prestigious position. I look forward to innovating how we deliver essential information to benefit our patients."

Through her extensive background, commitment to research in rare cancers, and focus on patient-centered care, Dr. Iyer exemplifies what it means to lead in healthcare—an approach that promises to elevate cancer care standards and ultimately improve the quality of life for countless individuals affected by cancer.

As NCCN embarks on yet another transformative journey, Dr. Renuka Iyer’s guidance will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing success and impact of the organization on a global scale. For more insights into the NCCN Guidelines and their ongoing efforts to redefine cancer care, visit NCCN.org.