Where International Patients Should Go for Cancer Treatment in Shanghai

Shanghai's Cancer Treatment Landscape

Shanghai is one of Asia's most advanced cities for cancer treatment, combining national tertiary cancer centers, world-class radiation facilities and internationally accredited private hospitals. For international patients, the advantages are clear: treatment costs are typically 30–60% lower than in the United States, waiting times are far shorter than in many European systems, and multilingual international departments are well established.

The key is choosing the right hospital for your tumour type. Here is a practical tier-by-tier guide.

Tier 1: National tertiary cancer centers

Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center — Shanghai's flagship cancer hospital and one of China's top three oncology centers. It treats the highest volume of cancer patients in the city and runs national key specialty programs in breast, lung, colorectal, gynecologic and head-and-neck cancers, plus CAR-T clinical trials and precision oncology. The international department offers English-speaking coordinators, second opinions and treatment planning. Best for: complex and rare cancers, multidisciplinary tumor boards, clinical trials. Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Hospital — China's first and most advanced proton and carbon-ion radiotherapy center. It is the leading choice for proton therapy in the region, with highly targeted radiation that minimizes damage to healthy tissue. Best for: pediatric tumors, head-and-neck, prostate, liver and other cancers where proton therapy is indicated.

Tier 2: International and comprehensive hospitals

Jiahui International Hospital (Shanghai) — Shanghai's largest international hospital, with American-style care, multilingual staff, and an oncology department covering surgery, chemotherapy and targeted therapy. It works with major international insurers on direct billing and offers a full patient journey in one campus. Ruijin Hospital International Department — One of Shanghai's most prestigious tertiary hospitals, with strong hematology and leukemia programs and a dedicated international medical center for overseas patients.

Tier 3: Imaging and diagnostics

Shanghai Concord Medical Diagnostic Imaging Center — Fast-track PET-CT, MRI and pathology services for cancer staging and follow-up, often completed within one day.

Estimated Costs (2026, outpatient consultation)

Consultation with oncology specialist: CNY 600–2,000

PET-CT whole body: CNY 7,000–10,000

Chemotherapy course (per cycle): CNY 20,000–60,000

Proton therapy (full course): CNY 250,000–350,000

How to Book as an International Patient

Send your latest reports and imaging to our coordinators for a free pre-assessment.

We arrange a multidisciplinary consultation and, if needed, a second opinion.

Translation, appointment scheduling, visa invitation letters and accommodation are all handled by our team.

FAQ

Q: Can I get a second opinion before travelling? Yes — we arrange remote consultations with Shanghai specialists, with a written report in your language. Q: Do you accept my insurance? We work with 100+ insurers and verify direct billing, GOP and pre-authorization for each patient's policy. Q: How long is a typical treatment stay? Consultation and staging: 3–5 days; surgery with recovery: 2–4 weeks; radiotherapy: 4–7 weeks depending on protocol.