Doctors at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi have achieved remarkable success by treating and safely delivering four pregnant women who were simultaneously battling serious cancers such as breast cancer and brain tumors. Despite the challenges posed by these complex medical conditions, all mothers and their newborns are reported healthy and safe.
Challenging Cases in Two Years
Over the past two years, the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department at BHU has managed four difficult cases involving pregnancy with concurrent cancer. Led by Dr. Mamta, the medical team carefully strategized treatment and delivery plans tailored to each patient’s condition, considering both the severity of the cancer and fetal well-being. Some patients underwent surgery first, others received chemotherapy alongside planned delivery, resulting in successful births in all cases.
Types of Cancer and Treatment Approach
Among these cases, two women faced brain tumors while two others had breast cancer. Additionally, a patient with kidney cancer was also treated. Treatment included surgical removal of affected tissues and chemotherapy when necessary. The medical team emphasized caution during pregnancy as cancer therapies pose risks to the fetus. Close collaboration between oncology specialists and gynecologists was vital.
NAAC A
NIRF #6 (2025)Banaras Hindu UniversityVaranasi, Uttar PradeshAdmission: CUET UG, CUET PG, NET/JRFEst. 1916View details
NAAC A+
NIRF #10 (2025)Aligarh Muslim UniversityAligarh, Uttar PradeshAdmission: CUET UG, CUET PG, NET/JRFEst. 1920View details
NAAC A
NIRF #37 (2025)Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar UniversityLucknow, Uttar PradeshAdmission: CUET UG, CUET PG, NET/JRFEst. 1996View details
NAAC B++
Central UniversityAllahabad UniversityPrayagraj, Uttar PradeshAdmission: CUET UG, CUET PG, NET/JRFEst. 1887View detailsRGNAU
Central UniversityRajiv Gandhi National Aviation UniversityRaebareli, Uttar PradeshAdmission: Own EntranceEst. 2013View detailsRLBCA
Central UniversityRani Lakshmi Bai Central Agricultural UniversityJhansi, Uttar PradeshAdmission: CUET UG, CUET PG, ICAR AIEEAEst. 2014View detailsCase Summaries
- Case 1: A 22-year-old pregnant woman with breast cancer had the tumor surgically removed, followed by four chemotherapy sessions. A complex fetal condition involving the umbilical cord was identified, but a safe delivery was achieved. The mother and child later returned for follow-up care.
- Case 2: A 30-year-old woman diagnosed with breast cancer in her 26th week underwent surgery. She was monitored through pregnancy and gave birth at 8 months to a healthy 1.8 kg baby. Chemotherapy was administered post-delivery.
- Case 3: A 29-year-old woman developed severe headaches during her 5th month of pregnancy; brain tumor diagnosis followed surgery outside BHU. She delivered a 2 kg baby at 9 months under BHU supervision.
- Case 4: A 26-year-old first-time mother with brain tumor required surgery. Delivery was scheduled at 30 weeks due to surgical necessity; she safely delivered a 1.4 kg baby requiring special care for prematurity.
Importance of Early Detection and Monitoring
Dr. Mamta highlighted that breast cancer is increasingly common, followed by cervical, kidney, and brain tumors. BHU’s MCH wing frequently treats patients reporting breast lumps. Timely investigation of abnormal symptoms like persistent abdominal pain, lumps, unexplained weight loss during pregnancy, headaches, and breast changes is critical for early diagnosis and treatment success.
Post-Treatment Care and Awareness
Women with pregnancy-related cancer at BHU continue regular follow-ups. Counseling services support patients and families in making informed decisions and increasing awareness about cancer during pregnancy. The team aims to improve outcomes through diligent monitoring and education.
