Chennai, Jan. 19 -- Doyen of cancer care and Adyar Cancer Institute Chairperson and renowned oncologist Dr V Shanta died at a private hospital early this morning.

She was 93.

Dr Shanta, who shared a close rapport with late Chief Minsiter J Jayalalithaa, was rushed to Apollo Hospital late last night after she complained of breathing problems and discomfiture in the heart.

But attempts to remove a block in a blood vessel failed and she breathed her last at around 0355 hrs.

Her body was kept at the Cancer Institute's old building where people from various walks of life paid their last respects.

On behalf of the Tamil Nadu government, health secretary Dr J Radhakrishnan placed a wreath on the mortal remains of Dr Shantha and paid h...