Adana Llanos

Sen. Adana A. M. Llanos, PhD, MPH, is a geneticist, cancer and molecular epidemiologist, and health equity scholar whose research explores how social and contextual factors influence biology and contribute to disparities in cancer outcomes. She is a tenured Associate Professor of Epidemiology at the Mailman School of Public Health and Co-Leader of the Cancer Population Science Program at the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Llanos’ work bridges molecular biology and public health to better understand the complex drivers of unequal distribution of cancer outcomes across populations, particularly in breast and cervical cancer. She has conducted pioneering research on the biological effects of obesity-related hormones (namely, the adipokines) in breast cancer, and her studies on chronic stress, neighborhood deprivation, and racial segregation have deepened understanding of the systemic roots of health disparities. Most recently, Dr. Llanos has expanded her research to include environmental exposures, such as the health impacts associated with chemical exposure from the use of personal care products. Beyond her scientific work, she is deeply committed to mentorship, teaching, and community engagement. She actively partners with non-profit organizations to promote health advocacy, education, and cancer survivorship. Through her research, leadership, and service, Dr. Llanos is devoted to creating a future where everyone thrives across the cancer care continuum.