Dr. Rengaswamy Sankaranarayanan (1952–2025)

 

It is with profound grief that the Access Cancer Care India (ACCI) consortium announces the passing of Dr. Rengaswamy Sankaranarayanan - a visionary, a mentor, and a giant in the field of cancer control. Dr. R. Sankaranarayanan arrived as a transformative force in the field of cancer control at a time when palliative care was often seen as the only realistic option for managing the cancer burden in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Through his groundbreaking research and unwavering commitment, Dr. Sankar proved to the world that LMICs could go beyond palliation—by implementing effective, contextually appropriate methods for the early detection and management of breast, cervical, and oral cancers. He was a passionate advocate for homegrown solutions, firmly believing in the capabilities of LMIC researchers and health professionals. Rather than importing models from the West that often failed to fit local realities, he championed evidence-based strategies that were feasible, scalable, and rooted in local health systems.

A legend gone too soon; Dr. Sankar’s loss is deeply personal to many of us. It’s difficult to put into words the sorrow we feel. He showed us what it means to live with humility, compassion, and passion. He never sought recognition, yet his life was filled with purpose. He gave freely his time, his wisdom, and his heart never turning away anyone who needed his support.

His gentleness, generosity, and deep dedication will remain etched in our memories. Though his passing is a great loss, his legacy will endure in the countless lives he touched, the values he lived by, and the path he shaped for cancer care in low- and middle-income settings.

We will miss him dearly - not only as a mentor and colleague, but as an extraordinary human being. His influence will continue to inspire our work and remind us of the kind of leadership that truly transforms lives.

 

Thank you, Dr. Sankar, for everything. Your impact lives on.