The Torch He Lit
Remembering Academician Yan Sun and His Enduring Legacy in Global Oncology
This personal tribute honors Academician Yan Sun (1929–2026), physician, scientist, educator, and one of the founders of modern medical oncology in China. Written by one of his former students and colleagues, the article weaves together personal memories with the remarkable story of a visionary who transformed cancer treatment, established national standards for clinical research, pioneered multidisciplinary oncology, mentored generations of physicians, and helped bring Chinese oncology to the global stage.
More than a biography, this is the story of a life devoted to patients, scientific discovery, education, and service, a legacy that continues to shape cancer care through the countless clinicians and researchers inspired by his example.
“The torch he lit has now been passed into our hands. This torch not only illuminates our path forward but should also bring warmth to every patient fighting cancer.”
– Sheng Yang, MD
“When children finish school, it’s only natural for them to go home.”
-Academician Yan Sun, explaining why he returned to China after studying abroad.
Prof. Yuankai Shi, Dr. Sheng Yang
