Portrait of Joel M. Palefsky
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Joel M. Palefsky, MD

Infectious DiseasesDirector, Anal Neoplasia Clinic, Research and Education (ANCRE) Center
Anal Dysplasia Mount Zion
415-353-7100
Portrait of Joel M. Palefsky
Portrait of Joel M. Palefsky
ucsf logo

Joel M. Palefsky, MD

Infectious DiseasesDirector, Anal Neoplasia Clinic, Research and Education (ANCRE) Center
Anal Dysplasia Mount Zion
415-353-7100

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About me

Dr. Joel Palefsky is an expert in infectious diseases and cancers associated with these diseases. He is an internationally recognized expert on the biology, treatment, progression and history of human papillomavirus (HPV) infections of the anus and genitals, particularly in the setting of HIV infection. He directs the UCSF Anal Neoplasia Clinic, Research and Education (ANCRE) Center, the world's first clinic devoted to anal cancer prevention.

Palefsky's research focuses on the biology and treatment of anal cancer. He is vice chair of the AIDS Malignancy Consortium, a research group supported by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) that investigates new treatments for AIDS-related cancers, and chair of the Anal Cancer/HSIL Outcomes Research (ANCHOR) Study, a multisite NCI study examining whether treating anal cancer precursor lesions prevents the development of anal cancer and seeking to identify biomarkers of cancer progression.

Palefsky earned his medical degree at McGill University and completed a fellowship in infectious diseases at Stanford University.

Palefsky is founder and past president of the International Anal Neoplasia Society. He is also past president of the International Papillomavirus Society and founder and chairperson of its international campaign for HPV awareness.

Education & training

Board certification

  • Infectious Disease, American Board of Internal Med/Infectious Disease
  • Internal Medicine, American Board of Internal Medicine

Fellowship

  • Infectious Diseases, Stanford University Medical Center-GME

Residency

  • Medicine, McGill University

Internship

  • Medicine, McGill University

Degree

  • MD, McGill University

My expertise

Locations

    Reviews

    Average rating

    5
    5 out of 5 Stars
    110 ratings
    About provider reviews

    Showing 1-6 of 22 reviews

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    • 5 out of 5 Stars
      October 3, 2025

      Dr. Palefsky is the best. His immense experience saves many lives. I am most fortunate to have him as my doctor.

    • 5 out of 5 Stars
      September 16, 2025

      I am very comfortable with Dr Palefsky. I would recommend to anyone.

    • 5 out of 5 Stars
      July 30, 2025

      Dr. Palefsky is compassionate, caring, & truly extraordinary in his competence

    • 5 out of 5 Stars
      July 28, 2025

      Dr Palefsky is outstanding. Always communicates as to procedures

    • 5 out of 5 Stars
      July 21, 2025

      I count myself lucky to receive such excellent, compassionate medical care.

    • 5 out of 5 Stars
      July 21, 2025

      Dr. Palefsky is an exceptional doctor. I am very fortunate to receive care from him.

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