Márcia Yamamura

Biography and Expertise of Márcia Yamamura

Dr. Márcia Yamamura is a distinguished medical professional whose career is dedicated to the institutionalization and advancement of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture within Brazil’s public health system. As the head of service at the prestigious Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), she not only oversees clinical care but also shapes the academic and research framework for integrative practices in a university hospital setting. Consequently, her leadership directly addresses the 3rd WCTCIM’s Thematic Axis 2, “Integration of TCIM into Health Systems,” providing a powerful case study from a key Latin American nation.

Her specialization in pediatric acupuncture further distinguishes her work. By establishing and leading the Pediatric Acupuncture Service, Dr. Yamamura pioneers TCIM applications for younger populations, a critical area of practice. This focus aligns her contributions with Thematic Axis 4, “TCIM Across the Lifespan,” and highlights how integrative medicine can offer non-pharmacological solutions from an early age, contributing to long-term well-being. This work is essential for building healthier, more resilient “Well-being Societies,” a core pillar of the congress motto.

Beyond her national influence, Dr. Yamamura’s role as a board member of the International Council of Medical Acupuncture and Related Techniques (ICMART) positions her as a global voice. In this capacity, she contributes to international standards and collaboration, echoing the congress’s emphasis on implementing the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy. Her expertise, therefore, serves as a vital bridge between local clinical realities in the Global South and the international dialogue on evidence-based, sustainable healthcare.

Professional Career

Dr. Márcia Yamamura‘s professional trajectory demonstrates a consistent and ascending path dedicated to establishing medical acupuncture as a recognized and integrated specialty within mainstream Brazilian healthcare. Her career began with a strong clinical foundation and evolved into significant leadership roles that influence policy, education, and clinical practice at both national and international levels. This journey reflects a deep commitment to patient care and the scientific advancement of Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine (TCIM).

Her progression within the Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP) is particularly noteworthy. Starting from specialized clinical practice, she advanced to leadership positions, where she now directs one of the most important academic acupuncture services in Brazil. This illustrates a successful model for TCIM integration within a major public university hospital.

• Current Role: Head of the Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Service, São Paulo Hospital, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP).
• Current Role: Chief of the Pediatric Acupuncture Service, São Paulo Hospital (UNIFESP).
• Current Role: Board Member, International Council of Medical Acupuncture and Related Techniques (ICMART).
• Previous Role: Physician and Coordinator, Acupuncture Clinic, Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, UNIFESP.
• Affiliation: Active member and contributor to the Brazilian Medical College of Acupuncture (CMBA), participating in educational and regulatory initiatives.
• Early Career: Medical residency in Pediatrics, providing the foundational expertise for her later specialization in pediatric acupuncture.

Academic Qualifications

The academic background of Dr. Márcia Yamamura provides the robust scientific and medical foundation upon which her pioneering work in acupuncture is built. Her education combines rigorous conventional medical training with specialized postgraduate qualifications in acupuncture, positioning her as a highly credible expert capable of bridging the knowledge systems of conventional and traditional medicine. This dual expertise is fundamental to her success in a university setting.

Her commitment to lifelong learning and specialization has been crucial for legitimizing acupuncture within the medical community in Brazil. Therefore, her academic path serves as a model for healthcare professionals seeking to develop competencies in TCIM, directly supporting the development of a qualified workforce as outlined in the WHO’s strategic goals.

• Specialist in Acupuncture: Title awarded by the Brazilian Medical Association (AMB) and the Brazilian Medical College of Acupuncture (CMBA), representing the highest official recognition for a medical acupuncturist in Brazil.
• Medical Residency in Pediatrics: Completed at a major teaching hospital, providing her with comprehensive expertise in child and adolescent health.
• Doctor of Medicine (MD): Graduated from a leading Brazilian medical school, where she received her foundational training in allopathic medicine.
• Postgraduate Studies: Engaged in continuous education and advanced training courses in Traditional Chinese Medicine to deepen her theoretical and practical knowledge beyond the scope of standard medical acupuncture programs.

Research and Publications

Dr. Márcia Yamamura is actively involved in clinical research, a crucial component of her role at the Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP). Her work aims to build a solid evidence base for the clinical applications of acupuncture, particularly within her areas of expertise such as pediatrics and pain management. This commitment to scientific validation aligns perfectly with the principles of the Gujarat Declaration, which call for the rigorous application of science to traditional medicine practices. Through her research, she contributes to a deeper understanding of acupuncture’s mechanisms, efficacy, and safety.

Her publications and research activities documented on her ORCID profile reflect an ongoing effort to answer critical clinical questions. For instance, her studies often focus on the practical challenges encountered in a hospital setting, seeking to develop standardized protocols that can be replicated and integrated into public health services. This work is instrumental for policymakers and hospital administrators who require robust data to support the inclusion of TCIM in their institutions.

Furthermore, the research led by Dr. Yamamura at a prominent South American university strengthens the global repository of TCIM knowledge from a regional perspective. This local evidence generation is a cornerstone of South-South collaboration, allowing countries with similar health challenges to learn from Brazil’s experience. Consequently, her work not only advances science but also fosters the kind of international partnership that the 3rd WCTCIM seeks to promote.

Board and Committee Activities

Dr. Márcia Yamamura‘s influence extends significantly beyond her clinical and academic duties through her active participation in key medical organizations. These roles underscore her status as a leader in the field, contributing to the strategic direction, ethical standards, and educational development of medical acupuncture on both a national and global scale. Her involvement is a testament to her commitment to shaping a sustainable and respected future for TCIM.

Serving on these boards and committees allows her to advocate for the principles of evidence-based practice and professional excellence. Therefore, her activities are pivotal in translating clinical expertise into broader policy and regulatory frameworks, which is essential for the successful integration of TCIM into health systems worldwide.

• Board Member, International Council of Medical Acupuncture and Related Techniques (ICMART): In this significant international role, Dr. Yamamura represents Brazil and Latin America, contributing to global dialogue on the standards, science, and practice of medical acupuncture. ICMART is a key non-governmental organization that collaborates with the World Health Organization (WHO).
• Member, Brazilian Medical College of Acupuncture (CMBA): As an active member of the primary specialty society for medical acupuncturists in Brazil, she is involved in initiatives related to specialist certification, continuing medical education, and defending the practice of acupuncture as a medical act.
• Member, Brazilian Medical Association (AMB): Her affiliation with Brazil’s main medical body ensures that her work in acupuncture remains connected to the broader landscape of medical practice and national health policy in the country.

Connect with Dr. Yamamura

Further information on the work and professional activities of Dr. Márcia Yamamura can be found through her institutional and professional profiles. These resources provide additional details on her contributions to the field of medical acupuncture and her leadership roles within major health and academic institutions.

Official Profile at UNIFESP: View institutional service page

LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/marcia-yamamura-a7a37a1b