(December 13, 2025) He once scored a dramatic 100/100 in mathematics during his Class 10 exams, but it was his values not his marks that shaped Dr Vijay Anand Reddy’s path after training abroad. Choosing not to settle in a foreign land, he returned to India and went on to treat over 20,000 patients, pioneer multiple firsts in oncology, and present his book I Am a Survivor to the President of India.
Dr Vijay Anand Reddy had every opportunity to settle down in London or the United States, where he trained and excelled as a medical professional. But the son of a farmer, who had worked in his father’s paddy fields and endured numerous hardships in pursuing his education always knew he would return home to serve his country. His decision to come back to India not only changed the course of his life, it proved to be a life saver for thousands of cancer patients, thanks to his evidence-based and experience-driven protocols that he customizes for his patients.
A veteran in the field of oncology with academic qualifications from globally reputed institutes and a medical practice extending over 30 years, Dr. Reddy, who has handled over 20,000 cancer cases with an extraordinary success rate of 85 per cent — continues to serve the country with the same zeal. “I genuinely love being with my patients. Their happiness gives me strength, their trust fills me with energy. Their recovery brings me fulfilment beyond measure,” smiles Dr Vijay Anand Reddy, Director and Senior Consultant Oncologist at Apollo Cancer Hospital, Hyderabad, in conversation with Global Indian.
From raising funds across the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad for the victims and refugees post Indo-Pak war of 1971, to volunteering for relief work following the devastating floods that ravaged Andhra Pradesh decades ago to saving thousands of lives with his medical expertise — the journey of the doctor presents a truly inspiring story. Importantly, he never lost sight of the social dimension of the medical profession.
Transforming cancer care with evidence, empathy, and innovation
Throughout his career, three qualities have consistently shaped Dr Reddy’s work — inquisitiveness, innovation, and a restless determination to achieve better outcomes for every patient. “These traits drove me to question established norms, explore new possibilities, and pioneer several groundbreaking procedures in Indian oncology,” says the renowned doctor, who has been a guest faculty for over three hundred CME programmes and has over 60 publications spanning a range of topics which speaks volumes about his scholarship. His patients often walk in with fear, anxiety, or despair. “My mission is to ensure they walk out feeling lighter, reassured, and hopeful.”
A trailblazer in Indian oncology
Among his long list of achievements, is the first ever Bone Marrow Transplant in Andhra Pradesh — a landmark achievement that opened the doors to advanced haematological cancer treatment in the region. He went on to conduct the first Interstitial Implant for Glioma in India. “Introducing this technique allowed for precise, targeted therapy for complex brain tumours,” explains Dr Reddy, who is also credited with the first interstitial implant for cancer of the penis in India, a pioneering step that transformed the management of this rare yet challenging malignancy.
Besides, Dr Reddy performed the first ultrasound-guided interstitial implant for prostate cancer, which enhanced accuracy while minimizing invasiveness. “This innovation improved outcomes significantly,” says Dr Reddy, who specializes in head and neck malignancies and ocular oncology, but has treated almost every type of cancer in the last two decades.
Thereafter, Dr Reddy performed the first Limb-Sparing Multidisciplinary Treatment for Bone Sarcoma in Andhra Pradesh; the first Intracoronary Brachytherapy in India; first Intra-Arterial Chemotherapy for Retinoblastoma; the first Intra-Ocular Brachytherapy Procedure, a cutting-edge approach providing organ-preserving treatment for ocular tumours.
Pushing boundaries with high-accuracy, patient-focused advances
Dr Reddy innovated short-course radiation for prostate and breast cancers. “These protocols reduced treatment burden while maintaining exceptional precision and safety,” informs Dr Reddy, who performed the highest number of Stereotactic Radiosurgery procedures in India, which stands as a testament to his expertise, precision, and leadership in high-end radiation therapy. He also came up with multiple innovations in the management of brain metastases including customised radiosurgery techniques that improved control rates and patient quality of life.
“These achievements are not just milestones—they reflect a lifelong commitment to elevating cancer care in India and pushing the boundaries of what is possible,” says the doyen of medicine, for whom innovation has never been about personal recognition — it has always been about giving every patient a better chance of survival, dignity, and hope.
From a farmer’s field to the frontlines of cancer care
Born in Hyderabad, Dr Reddy grew up in the unassuming hamlet of Palamuru in Mahbubnagar district, his father’s native place. He studied at Raman Institute, Mahbubnagar until Class 2. From Class 3 to Class 6, he continued at MBC High School, where academics came naturally to him. The third of four sons, he made full use of the privilege of an English medium schooling, performing exceptionally well in academics. “I consistently secured the top rank,” says Dr Reddy, who was awarded a rare double promotion from class 4 to class 6 in recognition of exceptional academic performance.
His father, an advocate and agriculturist, was known for his integrity, straightforwardness, and unwavering principles. “My mother, a dedicated homemaker, was the gentle force who instilled in us compassion, humility, and emotional strength.”
The perfect score that marked the rise of a prodigy
The atmosphere at home revolved around discipline, hard work, truthfulness, and respect, values that stayed with Dr Reddy forever. “Those early years in a close-knit family shaped the foundation of my values — education, discipline, sincerity, and service,” recalls Dr Reddy, who then moved to Hyderabad and joined Nrupatunga School in Class 7.
He completed his 10th class board examinations with first-class distinction, scoring a perfect 100/100 in Mathematics, which became a celebrated moment at school and even made local news. “I loved mathematics and physics, subjects that allowed me to apply logic and intelligence.”
A father’s faith that redirected his destiny
His father firmly believed that out of the four brothers, Dr Reddy had the potential to secure a coveted medical seat in an extremely competitive environment. He began motivating his son to become a doctor. Interestingly, the renowned oncologist had taken a keen interest in mathematics and physics and had initially wanted to be an engineer. “Respecting my father’s dream, I chose biology over engineering, a decision that would define the course of my life,” says Dr Reddy, who passed his Intermediate examination with a perfect score and cleared the EAMCET.
“My entry into the field of oncology was inspired by my uncle, Dr P. Ananth Reddy, a successful oncologist himself, working as a superintendent at Government Mehdi Nawaz Jung Cancer Hospital,” he shares.
Merit, grit, and pursuit of medical excellence
Dr Reddy pursued his MBBS at Osmania Medical College (OMC) availing himself of a merit scholarship of Rs 1,000 along with a state government aid of ₹25 per month for students from agricultural background and aid from the Nizam’s Trust at Purda Gate.
Having passed his MBBS with flying colours, he joined government services as first medical officer at Bhootpur Primary Health Centre, where he worked sincerely for three years to improve the small medical facility. He would even spend from his own pocket to streamline and strengthen medical and health services in Bhootpur.
Embracing one of medicine’s toughest paths with resolve
Thereafter, he enrolled in a three-year M.D (Radiation Therapy) programme despite warnings about the high mortality rates and relative difficulty of the area. “I was very clear about what I wanted. So, I took up the challenge and pursued M.D with dogged determination and passion,” says Dr Reddy, who joined as assistant professor at MNJ institute immediately after the course.
The moral compass that guided a lifetime of healing
Before he left for his training in London, Dr Reddy’s father gave him pieces of advice that became the moral compass of his entire career. He wanted Dr Reddy to go abroad only to learn, not to settle down. “He told me never to run after money and that it would follow if I excel. He asked me to focus on patient satisfaction, and above all, uphold ethics.” Importantly, he advised Dr Reddy to advise only what he would recommend to his own family.
Global expertise, brought home to serve India
Dr Reddy’s remarkable scholarship and work have, over the years, earned him several international fellowships including Clinical Oncology Fellowship of the Meyerstein Institute of Clinical Oncology, London, Nargis Dutt Memorial Cancer Foundation Fellowship of the New York Hospital, Head and Neck Oncology Fellowship at Peter Mc Callum Cancer Institute, Melbourne, and Ocular Oncology Fellowship at Wills Eye Hospital and Children’s Hospital, Philadelphia. He also received the Neuro oncology fellowship Heidelberg cancer center (Germany), Proton therapy fellowship, Quiron salad proton center, Madrid (Spain).
True wealth
For the first 20 years of his professional service, Dr Reddy worked from 7 am to 11 pm. Even now, he continues to work from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm. “I strive to ensure that no patient ever leaves my consultation room without a smile,” says the renowned medical professional, who is deeply moved by the affection his patients express — in the form of a bouquet, a respectful bow, an attempt to touch his feet, a warm hug, a selfie filled with joy, a shawl offered with reverence, or a simple box of sweets. For him, these gestures are the real treasures which make every long day feel meaningful, effortless, and profoundly rewarding.
Building a lifeline for India’s underserved cancer patients
Dr. Reddy’s humanitarian work extends beyond his clinical practice. In 2003, he founded the CURE Foundation (Cancer Care Units, Research, and Educational Foundation), which has become a beacon of hope for many underserved cancer patients in India. “The foundation provides free and subsidized treatment, cancer screenings, and conducts awareness programs, particularly for children and vulnerable communities,” informs Dr Reddy, a full member of major international organisations including the American Society of Medical Oncology, American Society for Radiation Oncology, European Society of Medical Oncology among others.
Over the years, the foundation has impacted the lives of more than 1,700 patients. He also supports several orphanages and educational institutions as well.
Championing prevention through public outreach
Awareness on cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment—has been his enduring passion even as he has been a leading figure in the anti-tobacco movement, working tirelessly to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use, which is a major contributor to lung and oral cancers. Over the past 33 years, he has spearheaded more than 72 impactful cancer awareness initiatives, inspiring communities towards a healthier, cancer-free future.
Support for terminally ill patients
Dr. Reddy is also actively involved in supporting terminally ill patients through his association with Sparsh Hospice. His contribution as both a big donor and board member has provided invaluable support to those in the final stages of cancer, ensuring they receive the comfort and care they deserve during their last days.
Stories of hope for every cancer fighter
In addition to his professional contributions, Dr. Reddy has also authored a groundbreaking book titled I Am a Survivor, which compiles the true stories of 108 cancer survivors. “The book is a powerful source of hope and inspiration for newly diagnosed cancer patients, offering them not just stories of triumph but practical insights on how to face cancer with courage, hope, and resilience,” says Dr Reddy, who recently presented the book to the President of India Droupadi Murmu.
