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Simmons Cancer Institute

Simmons Cancer Institute at SIU was established in 2001 to offer personalized cancer care, infusion services, diagnostic and therapeutic interventions for patients and families in central and southern Illinois. Our team of surgeons, radiologists, oncologists, genetic counselors, therapists and nurses assists nearly 1,750 patients each month.

 

Welcome

Simmons Cancer Institute at SIU practices “the team approach” to cancer treatment. Our team – the surgeons, radiologists, oncologists, genetic counselors, therapists, nurses and medical staff – meet together to decide the best treatment plan when you or your family member receives a cancer diagnosis. When the patient leaves SCI after receiving a cancer diagnosis, it’s not with a list of appointments for other opinions about treatment. It’s with a treatment plan and the knowledge that their cancer care team is working for the best possible outcome.

Collectively, our researchers have successfully achieved external grant funding in excess of $14 million. A large number of our physician faculty members also work with patients in clinical trials making new treatments and therapies available as cancer treatments advance.
In addition to patient care and research, many complementary programs and therapies are provided for our patients, their families and caregivers. These include support groups and dietary and nutrition counseling. Other services offered are yoga, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, Pilates and exercise programs specifically for cancer patients.
 

immons Cancer Institute
PATIENT CARE

Holistic care

When it comes to your cancer journey, you are not alone. At Simmons Cancer Institute, we believe in providing holistic care beyond chemotherapy and infusion treatments. We provide you and your family with complementary therapies and supportive services.

Programs

Side-by-Side Wellness Program

Support groups

Wig Salon

pilates

At Simmons Cancer Institute, we practice the team approach to cancer care. This means that our patients’ cancer treatment plans are formed collectively by our team of oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, counselors, and chemotherapy-certified medical staff.

Clinical services

Types of cancer

Surgical services

Breast Center

SCI pharmacy

  

EDUCATION

Hematology/Oncology Fellowship

The Hematology and Medical Oncology Fellowship is a 3-year program at the SIU School of Medicine. As a fellow, you'll split your time between inpatient and outpatient rotations, through which you will acquire a panel of patients you will follow over your three years of training. In your subsequent years of training, you'll conduct research and participate in sub-specialty training including gynecologic oncology, radiation oncology, hematopathology, stem cell transplantation and CAR-T cell therapy, and outpatient service.

RESEARCH

Preventing and curing cancer

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Discovery research at the Simmons Cancer Institute at SIU provides the novel findings in cancer biology which will translate to better detection, treatment, and prevention options in the future. Research efforts are revealing fresh aspects in cellular and molecular mechanisms promoting tumor growth and metastases, new biomarkers for earlier detection and monitoring of therapeutic interventions, innovative agents and approaches for the treatment and prevention of cancer growth and proliferation.

Cancer research

Our Team

Latest news

Cal & siblings

A year after leukemia diagnosis, clinical trial brings hope

When their 4-year-old son was stricken with leukemia, Chad and Regan Hoesman turned to the children's cancer specialists at SIU Medicine and hoped for the best. A year into his treatment, their little boy received a big gift.

Colon cancer screening kits available at SCI March 19

Simmons Cancer Institute will provide free colorectal cancer screening kits to area residents at a drive-thru event from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. and 4 - 6 p.m. on Wednesday, March 19.
SCI Intern with mentor

Simmons Cancer Institute accepting research internship applications

Applications for summer lab internships at Simmons Cancer Institute are being accepted through February 21. Four positions are open to qualified college students planning careers in medicine or research.
man with phone

Free prostate cancer screenings Sept. 13

DECATUR, IL Memorial Health, in partnership with SIU Medicine and Cancer Care Specialists of Illinois, will offer free prostate cancer screenings on Friday, Sept. 13, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at SIU

Latest blog articles

men cooking

Men’s health made easy: The screenings you need at every age

Studies have found that about 60% of men avoid doctors and health screenings. Because these are important for maintaining your physical and mental well-being, taking care of yourself at a young age makes it easier to protect your health as you get older.
Mammogram

FDA requires patient notification of breast density

Nearly half of women age 40 and older have dense breasts, which can make mammograms harder to read and increase the likelihood of missing cancer during screenings. To address this, the FDA now requires mammogram facilities to notify patients about their breast density.
cancer cells

How telehealth can help cancer survivors

Learn how virtual health care is making a positive impact on the lives of cancer survivors.
Sunscreen for all skin tones

Same sun. Different shades. All at risk.

It’s a good time of year to shed some light on myths about sunscreen. Learn more about how to protect your skin, no matter what shade you are.

Upcoming events