Legendary Cancer Pathologist, Dr Anita Borges, No More

Mumbai: Widely recognized as a legendary figure in pathology, Dr Anita Borges, one of the country’s most respected cancer pathologists, unfortunately passed away in Gorakhpur yesterday after suffering a heart attack at the age of 73.

Dr Borges, often referred to as the “Queen of Histopathology”, was a pioneer whose career spanned over five decades. She served at leading institutions, including Tata Memorial Hospital and S.L. Raheja Hospital, before heading the Centre for Oncopathology in Mumbai.

Her precise histopathology reports played a crucial role in guiding oncologists and surgeons, ensuring timely and accurate treatment for thousands of cancer patients across India.

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Beyond her diagnostic expertise, Dr Borges was celebrated as a mentor, teacher and a role model. Colleagues and her students recall her generosity in sharing knowledge, her willingness to discuss complex cases, and her dedication to guiding young pathologists and clinicians. Even in her final days, she remained actively involved in teaching and mentoring.

She was described as a “passionate mentor whose heart and soul is dedicated to pathology." Her most memorable moment was being awarded the first Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indian Society of Head and Neck Oncologists – during which, as the daughter of a cancer surgeon, she was delighted to be introduced as a “pathologist who thinks like a surgeon.” She always advised to work like a pathologist, but think like a clinician.

Her sudden death has left an irreplaceable void in the medical fraternity. The loss is not only to her family and friends but to the entire oncology community, where her presence was a source of confidence, wisdom, and reassurance.

Tributes have poured in from across the medical fraternity. Doctors and institutions described her as a “stalwart,” a “pillar of strength,” and an “unparalleled mentor” whose work and wisdom transformed oncology practice in India.

Dr Anita Borges leaves behind not only a lasting legacy in pathology but also generations of doctors inspired by her guidance. She will be remembered not only for her brilliance but also for her warmth, generosity of spirit, and the compassion that radiated from her work.

Extending heartfelt condolences, a doctor wrote in a post on 'X', "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr Anita Borges, a doyen of pathology in India and an eminent pathologist of national and international repute."

"Her remarkable contributions, dedication, and zeal have left an indelible mark on the field of pathology, inspiring generations of pathologists and medical professionals. We lost a stalwart and a great teacher. She was involved in teaching even in the last moments of her life! Words cannot describe her aura she carried. Her loss creates an irreplaceable void in our fraternity," said another doctor.

"Deeply saddened by the passing of Dr Anita M. Borges—a doyen of Indian pathology, mentor to generations, and a fierce guardian of diagnostic rigor. Her work elevated cancer care for countless patients," said a doctor.

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