Yanghee Woo, MD, FACS
Dr. Yanghee Woo, MD, FACS, is a distinguished surgeon and academician with a deep commitment to advancing the field of surgical oncology. As the newly appointed member of Debbie’s Dream Foundation: Curing Stomach Cancer’s Scientific Medical Advisory Board (SMAB), Dr. Woo brings a wealth of expertise and a passion for improving outcomes for individuals affected by stomach cancer.
Dr. Woo serves as the Associate Professor and Vice Chair of International Affairs at the City of Hope Cancer Center, where she also holds the position of Director of the GI Minimally Invasive Therapies Program. Her extensive academic background includes a Medical Doctorate from Drexel University College of Medicine and postgraduate training at renowned institutions such as St. Vincent’s Catholic Medical Center, Columbia University Medical Center, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, and Yonsei University College of Medicine in South Korea.
With a career marked by leadership and innovation, Dr. Woo has made significant contributions to the field of surgical oncology. Her current roles include serving as the Vice Chair of International Affairs and Community Outreach at the City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center and as a Global Faculty member at Stanford University’s Center for Asian Health Research and Education.
Dr. Woo’s involvement in various scientific and medical societies showcases her commitment to collaboration and knowledge exchange. As a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a lead faculty member for advanced robotic surgery courses, she has played an active role in shaping the future of surgical techniques for complex abdominal cancers. Her dedication extends globally, as demonstrated by her positions in international committees and engagements with institutions in China and Brazil.
In addition to her academic pursuits, Dr. Woo is deeply engaged in community service organizations, including her role as Co-Chief Medical Advisor for Hope for Stomach Cancer and contributions to the Korean American Health Coalition of Los Angeles. She has received notable recognition for her contributions, including the Luminary Award from Hope for Stomach Cancer and the Community Health Leadership Award from the Korean American Federation of Los Angeles.
Dr. Woo’s commitment to advancing gastric cancer care is further evident in her role as a consultant for J&J Ethicon, Imugene, Astellas, and Virtual Incision. Her major lectureships at prestigious institutions worldwide and numerous publications underscore her standing as a thought leader in the field.
In joining the Scientific Medical Advisory Board of Debbie’s Dream Foundation, Dr. Yanghee Woo brings her expertise, passion, and dedication to the forefront of the fight against stomach cancer, aligning seamlessly with DDF’s mission to advance research, support patients, and ultimately find a cure for this devastating disease.