Seven Decades of Pioneering Cancer Research
From India's first comprehensive cancer centre to a global research hub — advancing discovery, training the next generation, and delivering compassionate care since 1954.
Cancer Institute (WIA) has been at the forefront of cancer research in India for over seven decades. Our research program spans molecular oncology, translational diagnostics, and clinical trials — bridging laboratory discovery with patient care across the full spectrum of cancer types.
Cancers We Study
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Breast Cancer
Our breast cancer program integrates molecular subtyping, targeted therapy trials, and survivorship research to improve outcomes across all stages of disease.
Blood Cancers
Lung Cancer
Children's Cancers
Head & Neck Cancer
Featured Image
Breast Cancer
Our breast cancer program integrates molecular subtyping, targeted therapy trials, and survivorship research to improve outcomes across all stages of disease.
Blood Cancers
Lung Cancer
Children's Cancers
Head & Neck Cancer
Ovarian & Women's Cancers
Colon Cancer
Gastric Cancer
Bone Cancers
Featured Image
Breast Cancer
Our breast cancer program integrates molecular subtyping, targeted therapy trials, and survivorship research to improve outcomes across all stages of disease.
Blood Cancers
Lung Cancer
Children's Cancers
Head & Neck Cancer
Ovarian & Women's Cancers
Colon Cancer
Gastric Cancer
Bone Cancers
Our Legacy
Three visionaries whose conviction, sacrifice, and science built one of India's most enduring institutions of cancer care.
Dr. S. Krishnamurthi
Son of Dr. Muthulakshmi Reddy, he transformed Cancer Institute into a world-class research center. Introduced India's first DM (Medical Oncology) and MCh (Surgical Oncology) degrees in 1984, and established the Madras Metropolitan Tumour Registry.
Dr. Muthulakshmi Reddy
India's first woman legislator and medical graduate from a co-educational institution. Founded Cancer Institute (WIA) in 1954 through the Women's India Association, making it the first comprehensive cancer center in South India.
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Dr. V. Shanta
Served Cancer Institute for over 60 years. Under her stewardship, 60% of patients received free or subsidized care. Recipient of the Ramon Magsaysay Award and Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian honor.
Global Collaborations
Advancing cancer science through shared expertise, data, and clinical trials across 4 countries.
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4
Countries
9
Partners
6
Active Projects
Cancer Research UK
London, United Kingdom
OPTIMISTICC Grand Challenge
DBT/Wellcome Trust India Alliance
New Delhi, India / United Kingdom
PEACOCC Consortium
IIT Madras
Chennai, India
Ovarian Cancer Diagnostics AI
Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
New Delhi, India
Multiple Funded Research Programs
International CRC Microbiome Network
London, International
Global Colorectal Cancer Microbiome Research
PEACOCC Consortium
Chennai, India
Pan-India Early-Onset CRC Microbiome Study