Cancer
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Why choose UCSF Health for cancer treatment?
The UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center is the region's leading cancer center and consistently ranks among the nation's best. Patients and physicians worldwide turn to us for unmatched expertise, innovative research and truly personalized care. At every stage of treatment, we anticipate what's next and adapt with you – so you make confident, informed health decisions.
With locations in San Francisco, Berkeley, Greenbrae, Redwood City and San Mateo, it's easy to get the best possible care close to home.
Why choose UCSF Health for cancer treatment?
The UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center is the region's leading cancer center and consistently ranks among the nation's best. Patients and physicians worldwide turn to us for unmatched expertise, innovative research and truly personalized care. At every stage of treatment, we anticipate what's next and adapt with you – so you make confident, informed health decisions.
With locations in San Francisco, Berkeley, Greenbrae, Redwood City and San Mateo, it's easy to get the best possible care close to home.
In-depth experience
No matter what type of cancer you have, your care is guided by a team of experts who specialize in it. This level of expertise means you get the most precise diagnosis and the most effective treatment options.Advanced treatments
We use less invasive surgeries and targeted therapies with fewer side effects to treat cancer effectively while preserving your quality of life.Pioneering research
You have access to the future of cancer care today. Our patients are often the first to benefit from new therapies, thanks to our wide range of clinical trials for many types and stages of cancer.Unwavering support
From symptom management to counseling, we deliver whole-person care by meeting your physical, emotional and spiritual needs throughout your journey.
Related services
Our personalized approach to cancer care
At UCSF Health, your care is built around you – your diagnosis, your preferences and your quality of life.
Using the latest science, including advanced genetic and molecular testing, we gain a precise understanding of your cancer. Our specialists translate those insights into targeted treatment strategies designed to give you the best possible outcome.
At every stage, we provide clear information and compassionate guidance so you and your family can move forward with confidence.
Tackling cancer with the robotic Whipple procedure
Providers
Excellence in patient care
Best in California and No. 7 in the nation for cancer care
Related conditions & treatments
Conditions
- Blood Cancer
- Breast Cancer
- Lung Cancer
- Prostate Cancer
- Skin Cancer
- Brain and Spine Tumors
- Gastrointestinal (GI) Cancer
- Colorectal Malignancy
- Genitourinary Cancers
Treatments
- Genetic Testing
- Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy
- CyberKnife
- Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Therapy
- Mohs Surgery
- Focused Ultrasound
Accreditations & memberships
National Cancer Institute
The National Cancer Institute has designated UCSF Health a comprehensive cancer center, its highest ranking. This designation is awarded to centers that demonstrate scientific excellence and the ability to conduct cancer research across many disciplines.
Commission on Cancer
UCSF Health's cancer programs have been accredited by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer (CoC) since 1933. The CoC is a consortium of groups dedicated to improving cancer patients' survival and quality of life via research, education and better medical care.
National Comprehensive Cancer Network
UCSF is a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, an alliance of the world's top cancer centers. The network brings together leaders in treatment and research to improve the quality, effectiveness and efficiency of cancer care.
Research initiatives
UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center ResearchOpens in a new window
UCSF is home to a range of research initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for cancer patients everywhere. This includes research on topics such as immunotherapy, BRCA mutations and molecular diagnostic testing.
Our Cancer Center Guidebook, available in three languages, helps you navigate cancer care at UCSF.
Cancer support services
Patient & Family Cancer Support Center
The center offers wellness programming, community, support groups, classes, workshops and more at no cost to people facing cancer and their loved ones.
Oncology Social Work
Social workers offer support, problem-solving, help accessing UCSF cancer-related resources and more. Find out how to contact the social worker for your clinic.
Cancer Support Groups
These groups offered by the Ida and Joseph Friend Patient and Family Cancer Support Center are free and available to all patients, whether or not you get your health care at UCSF.
Art for Recovery
Creativity can help people with serious illnesses cope, heal and express what they're going through. Find out about our program and how to join.
Cancer Exercise Counseling
Our one-on-one exercise training sessions, customized for your needs and abilities, can complement other cancer treatments and speed your recovery.
Core and More Class for Cancer Patients
A strong body helps you fight cancer and enjoy life. Join this class to stabilize your core, strengthen your muscles and improve overall fitness. For cancer patients and caregivers!
Friend to Friend Specialty Shops
A one-stop boutique for patients with cancer. Get professional help with wigs, prostheses, sun-protective clothing, makeup, skin care and more.
Kôz Hospitality House
Kôz Hospitality House provides comfortable, reasonably priced accommodations near our Parnassus campus for UCSF patients during their treatment.
Meditation and Guided Imagery for Cancer Patients
Drop in for a free class designed to help you heal, relax and find balance during your treatment. UCSF and non-UCSF patients are welcome.
Neuro-Oncology Caregiver Program
If you're caring for someone with a brain tumor, our program can help with guidance, information, resources and support at this difficult time. Find out more.
Peer Support Programs for Cancer
Patients are matched with peer support volunteers according to criteria such as diagnosis, cancer stage, age or gender. Speak to someone who's "been there."
UCSF Patient Support Corps
Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis is stressful. Get guidance, support and answers to your questions here as you consider your options and make decisions.