Instituto Do Cancer Do Estado De Sao Paulo Hospital in São Paulo, Brazil

Instituto do Câncer do Estado de São Paulo (ICESP) is a public oncology center established on May 6, 2008, in São Paulo, Brazil. Recognized as the largest public cancer treatment center in Latin America, ICESP operates multiple units in São Paulo and Osasco. The institute was initially designed for women’s health, with construction beginning in 1988, paused in 1994, and resumed in 2001. In 2007, its focus was redefined exclusively for cancer care.

ICESP’s mission is to serve as a center of excellence in cancer care, education, and research, in alignment with the principles of Brazil’s public health system (SUS). The institute integrates patient-focused processes to provide safe, efficient, and high-quality oncological care. It holds several national and international accreditations, including certifications from the Organização Nacional de Acreditação (ONA) and international standards for its Central Laboratory.

The institute specializes in oncology, offering services for the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of cancer patients. Its units in São Paulo and Osasco cover various areas of oncology, with medical teams coordinated by specialists in the field. In addition to clinical treatment, ICESP provides patient support programs, including psychological and nutritional follow-up, which complement oncological care.

ICESP’s facilities are housed in a building originally intended for women’s health, adapted in 2007 to function as a specialized public oncology center. The infrastructure includes units for high-complexity procedures such as surgeries and transplants, as well as dedicated sectors for chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Centralized support services are available, including “Alô Enfermeiro,” “Alô Farmacêutico,” and “Alô Nutrição,” which assist patients in their care journey.

For emotional support and well-being, ICESP offers programs such as “Cantinho da Beleza,” providing haircuts, manicure, makeup, and guidance on headscarves for patients. These services are available in both outpatient and inpatient settings, including intensive care units. The institute also organizes integration activities for patients, such as the “Sino da Radioterapia” and annual fashion shows held within its facilities.

ICESP’s clinical laboratory holds international PALC certification, and the institution maintains ISO 9001, 14001, and OHSAS 18001 certifications, reflecting structured processes to ensure the quality of services provided. The institute offers a range of services, including outpatient clinics, a pharmacy, and over 100 therapeutic, cultural, and educational programs for patients and their families.

The leadership team includes Vice-President Prof. Dr. William Carlos Nahas and Director-President Dr. Arnaldo Hossepian Salles Lima Junior. The Executive Board is headed by Joyce Chacon Fernandes, with directors responsible for administration, clinical engineering, assistance, and information technology. The Clinical Staff Directorate is managed by Profa. Dra. Maria Del Pilar Estevez Diz and Prof. Dr. Ulysses Ribeiro Junior, who also coordinate key oncology and diagnostic areas.

This multidisciplinary leadership structure supports ICESP’s focus on oncology care and research, ensuring that specialized teams oversee the main medical specialties, including oncology and hematology. The institute’s approach integrates clinical excellence with comprehensive patient support, education, and research initiatives.