Dr.V. Shanta is a prominent Cancer specialist and the Chairperson of Adyar Cancer Institute, Chennai. Her career has included organizing care for cancer patients and research in the prevention and cure of the disease. Her work won several awards including the Magsaysay Award, Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan.She has been associated with Adyar Cancer Institute since 1955, and has held several key positions, including its Director between 1980-1997.