Actor Rajshri Deshpande, known for her role in Trial by Fire, has revealed that she was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer at the age of 43. Sharing the news in two emotional Instagram posts, she said the diagnosis came during a routine preventive health check-up, which helped detect the cancer early.
In her note, Deshpande wrote that it took courage to inform her parents about the diagnosis, adding that early detection gave her a “fighting chance.” She described the period of multiple tests and surgery as a “rollercoaster ride,” but said the love and support from family and well-wishers helped her stay strong. Thanking her doctor and supporters, she shared that she is recovering well and will soon return home from the hospital.
In another message, Deshpande reflected on how the year had begun with ambitious plans, including working on rural education initiatives and environmental projects. Despite the diagnosis, she said she remains hopeful and determined, calling it “just a chapter, not my whole story.” She also expressed a renewed commitment to raising awareness about breast cancer.
According to Dr Meghal Sanghavi, oncosurgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, Deshpande was diagnosed with infiltrating ductal carcinoma (NOS)—the most common form of breast cancer, where cancer cells spread from the milk ducts into nearby breast tissue. “NOS” means the cancer does not fall into a rare subtype, while Grade 1 indicates slow-growing cells, making it generally easier to treat when detected early.
For early-stage cases, surgery is usually the first line of treatment, sometimes followed by radiation, hormone therapy, or targeted therapies depending on the patient’s reports. Dr Sanghavi emphasised that early detection plays a crucial role, as cancers identified during routine screenings often require less extensive treatment and have significantly better survival outcomes. Regular screening, she noted, can greatly improve recovery and long-term prognosis.
