Senior Oncologist Dr V Shanta, Chairperson Of Cancer Institute WIA, Passes Away At 93 In Chennai

The chairperson of the Adyar Cancer Institute, also known as the Cancer Institute (WIA) in Chennai, Dr V Shanta is no more. The senior oncologist passed away early on Tuesday morning. She was 93.

The veteran doctor was admitted to a private hospital in the city after she complained of chest pain last night. Sources at the institute stated that she had a massive heart blockage. After her demise, her body is currently being taken to the old Cancer Institute premises in Gandhi Nagar, which she helped build along with her mentor Dr Krishnamoorthy, ANI reported. She had been serving as a resident medical officer for the last 65 years. Friends, family and people are gathering there to pay their respects.

Cancer Institute founder Dr V Shanta passes away in Chennai

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— ANI Digital (@ani_digital) January 19, 2021

Popularly known as the cancer crusader, Dr Shanta was a resident doctor, who eventually rose to become chairperson of the institute.

Extending his condolence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, “Dr V Shanta will be remembered for her outstanding efforts to ensure top quality cancer care. The Cancer Institute at Adyar, Chennai, is at the forefront of serving the poor and downtrodden. I recall my visit to the Institute in 2018. Saddened by Dr V Shanta’s demise. Om Shanti.”

Dr. V Shanta will be remembered for her outstanding efforts to ensure top quality cancer care. The Cancer Institute at Adyar, Chennai is at the forefront of serving the poor and downtrodden. I recall my visit to the Institute in 2018. Saddened by Dr. V Shanta’s demise. Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/lnZKTc5o3d

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 19, 2021

"Her entire medical life over 50 years has been dedicated to the mission of organising care of Cancer patients, the study of the disease, its prevention and control, the generation of specialists and scientists in different aspects of Oncologic Sciences," the Adyar Cancer Institute told ANI.

The veteran oncologist played a significant role in making quality and affordable cancer treatment accessible to all patients. She was also awarded the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan and Ramon Magsaysay awards.

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Feature Image Credit: The Indian Express

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