Lisa Ray launches cancer hospital in Mumbai

Dressed in an off-shoulder figure-hugging grey dress, Lisa Ray would have seemed like an unlikely face at a cancer institute. Ray who has recovered from multiple myeloma flew down from her hometown in Toronto, to launch Fortis Hospitals' cancer institute in Mumbai's eastern suburb of Mulund.

Addressing the media she said, "I am honoured to be part of this event because I am Lisa Ray and I am a cancer survivor."

The actress who has become a spokesperson for cancer in general and multiple myeloma, a rare form of cancer, in particular said that she is often asked about her learnings of her journey from detection to cure.  "The fact is I am still processing what cancer has taught me," she said.

Ray added that it is important to share stories, just like she did. "A lot of people feel isolated when they are diagnosed with cancer. The moment you share your story you will be amazed at the amount of support you receive," she added.

India has the highest cases of cancer in the world. 90 to 120 per 100,000 Indians are likely to develop some form of cancer in their lifetime.Tobacco remains the primary cause of cancer amongst men. Breast cancer is the most likely form of cancer to affect urban Indian women.

The Toronto-based actress also said that treatment of cancer involved healing of the entire person and that there was an urgent need for a shift in attitude towards the disease.

Image:  Lisa Ray speaks at the launch of Fortis Hospitals' cancer institute in Mumbai.

Photograph:  Hitesh Harisinghani/Rediff.com