Updated October 17, 2026 — Written by Dr. Shabbir Hussain, BPT, Registered Physiotherapist | Clinical Rehabilitation Specialist
Quick Answer
Dr. Rachna Shroff, a renowned gastrointestinal oncologist at the University of Arizona Cancer Center, died at age 47 after battling an aggressive cancer, according to reports published in October 2026. She was known for advancing research into pancreatic and biliary tract cancers, including cholangiocarcinoma. Her legacy includes an endowed award supporting young researchers in biliary cancer.
Who Was Dr. Rachna Shroff?
Dr. Rachna Shroff was a physician-scientist who dedicated her career to improving treatment options for people with difficult-to-treat gastrointestinal cancers. She served as chief of the Division of Hematology and Oncology at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson and associate director of clinical investigations at the university’s cancer center.
She previously worked at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston before returning to Tucson in 2018. Her research, clinical leadership and mentorship helped expand opportunities for cancer patients to participate in clinical trials.
What Health Issue Did Dr. Rachna Shroff Have?
Dr. Rachna Shroff battled an aggressive, life-limiting cancer before her death at age 47 in October 2026, according to the University of Arizona. The university’s memorial announcement confirms her illness but does not specify the cancer’s primary site. Other published reports have provided additional details about her diagnosis, so any more specific description should be attributed to the relevant source.
Her specialization in pancreatic and biliary tract cancers does not, by itself, establish which cancer she developed.
Was Dr. Rachna Shroff a Cancer Specialist?
Yes. Dr. Rachna Shroff was a gastrointestinal oncologist who specialized in research and treatment development for pancreatic cancer and biliary tract cancers, including cholangiocarcinoma, a cancer of the bile ducts.
Her research focused on developing and evaluating new cancer treatments through clinical trials. Her area of specialization describes her professional work, not necessarily the type of cancer she experienced personally.
Which Cancer Hospital Did Dr. Rachna Shroff Work At?
Dr. Shroff was affiliated with the University of Arizona Cancer Center in Tucson, Arizona, where she held senior clinical and research leadership positions.
Earlier in her career, she served on the faculty at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, from 2010 to 2018.
These institutions played important roles in her work developing cancer treatments and expanding access to clinical research.
What Was Dr. Rachna Shroff’s Ethnicity?
The supplied report describes her upbringing in Tucson and her family’s medical and scientific background. However, it does not explicitly establish her ethnicity. Her family background should not be inferred from her name or professional biography alone.
Who Was Dr. Rachna Shroff’s Husband? Did She Have Children?
Dr. Rachna Shroff was married to Dr. Puneet Shroff, a professor of medicine and associate director of the Banner Medical Group’s Allergy Clinic. The university’s memorial announcement identifies their children as Simran and Sachin.
Her family, colleagues and patients were among those affected by her death.
What Is the Rachna Shroff Young Investigator Award?
Dr. Rachna Shroff’s legacy includes an endowed award established through Conquer Cancer, the foundation of the American Society of Clinical Oncology. The award supports young investigators conducting research into biliary cancers, including cancers of the bile ducts.
According to the supplied reporting, the initiative raised more than $1.35 million. Its purpose is to help promising researchers advance scientific understanding and explore better treatment options for biliary tract cancers.
Her Legacy in Cancer Research
Dr. Shroff’s career illustrates the importance of clinical trials, scientific collaboration and mentorship in oncology. Her work focused on improving options for patients facing challenging gastrointestinal cancers while helping emerging researchers pursue new treatment approaches.
Her death at 47 is a significant loss to the oncology community. The research award established in her name offers a way for her commitment to cancer research to continue supporting future investigators.
Medical Sources
- University of Arizona Cancer Center — Celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Rachna Shroff.
- University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson — In Memoriam: Rachna Shroff, MD, MS.
- University of Arizona — Official faculty profile: Rachna Shroff, MD, MS, FASCO.
- Arizona Public Media — Leading UA cancer researcher dies
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. If you have persistent, severe, worsening, or concerning symptoms, consult a qualified healthcare professional. Seek urgent medical care for emergency symptoms.
Dr. Shabbir Hussain, BPT
Registered Physiotherapist | Clinical Rehabilitation Specialist
Maharashtra OTPT Council Reg. No.: PR-2021/08/PT/009532
Society of Onco Physiotherapists Reg. No.: SOP/00033/LM
Dr. Shabbir Hussain, BPT, Registered Physiotherapist with over 8 years of experience in physiotherapy, kidney rehabilitation, oncological rehabilitation, and lymphedema management. He specializes in balance disorders, pain management, musculoskeletal rehabilitation, strengthening programs, and VR-based rehabilitation.