September 20, 2025

Mumbai and Gorakhpur are mourning the loss of Dr Anita Borges, India’s most respected oncopathologist. At 78, she died suddenly due to a heart attack while attending a medical conference in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. Dr Borges was a giant in the field of cancer diagnosis. Her biopsy reports were considered the "final verdict" by oncologists to decide cancer types and treatment plans. Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH) in Parel, Mumbai, where she began her shining career, expressed deep sorrow on social media. They wrote, "We deeply mourn the loss of Dr Anita Borges, India's most illustrious oncopathologist. Her service to countless patients at TMH and beyond leaves an indelible legacy. It was indeed fitting that she left for her heavenly abode doing what she was most passionate about, teaching." Dr Eric Borges, her younger brother and cardiologist, shared a heartfelt tribute. He said, "My sister was caring, humane in her approach to patients, and most passionate about teaching. She will be missed not only in pathology but also by thousands of young doctors whom she mentored." He also mentioned that her body has not yet reached Mumbai and the funeral plans are still being made. The family has a special bond with TMH, as the road where the hospital stands is named after their father, Dr Ernest Borges, a former director of the institute. Dr Anita Borges' impact was huge. Professor Akshay Baheti of TMH said, "A doyen amongst the pathologists, her word used to be the last word. And yet, her passion drove her to go to tier 2 cities to teach basics like staining slides well to pathologists and technologists." Indeed, in the past few weeks, Dr Borges traveled not just to Gorakhpur but also to places like Latur and Jammu. She never stopped teaching and sharing her knowledge, even in smaller cities. India lost not just a top doctor, but a shining star who lit up the path for future generations in cancer care.

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Tags: Dr anita borges, Oncopathology, Tata memorial hospital, Cancer diagnosis, Medical conference, Heart attack,