Full Breakdown
Nafisa Ali Shifts to Targeted Therapy as Ovarian Cancer Progresses
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Update
On September 14, 2026, veteran actor Nafisa Ali Sodhi, 69, posted a photograph from a hospital bed and announced that her treatment protocol had changed to targeted therapy after a PET/CT scan revealed new cancer deposits on the surface of her liver.
Background & Context
- In 2018, Ali disclosed a diagnosis of stage 3 peritoneal and ovarian cancer.
- She underwent major surgery in 2019 and was reported cancer-free later that year, with regular follow-up examinations.
- The disease returned in 2025, prompting a restart of chemotherapy.
- In July 2026, she described cancer as “the scariest journey,” noting its strain on families and finances.
Medical Explanation
Targeted therapy differs from conventional chemotherapy. While chemotherapy attacks rapidly dividing cells broadly, targeted therapy aims at specific molecular changes or pathways that enable cancer cells to grow and survive. Eligibility often depends on biomarker or genetic testing to identify a suitable molecular target.
In oncology, “progressed” indicates that a tumor has grown or that new disease sites have appeared despite ongoing treatment. In ovarian and peritoneal cancers, spread can occur across the peritoneal lining, leading to implants on the outer capsule of organs such as the liver. These liver-surface deposits are distinct from a primary liver tumor.
Official Statements & Responses
Dr. Puneet Gupta, Chairman of Oncology Services at Asian Hospital, explained that a shift to targeted therapy is not automatic for every patient whose disease progresses. Clinicians assess cancer type, stage, prior treatment response, side-effect profile, and overall health before selecting a new regimen. Imaging findings must be interpreted alongside earlier scans, physical examinations, and symptom assessment to determine the full stage and appropriate next steps.
Data & Statistics
- Current disease stage: stage 4 ovarian/peritoneal cancer.
- Remission history: three documented remissions since the initial diagnosis.
- Recent imaging: PET/CT identified new deposits on the liver capsule.
Verbatim Quotes
- “My treatment protocol has changed and now I have been put on a Targeted Therapy… fighting the good fight. Thank you for always keeping my support energy strong,” — Nafisa Ali
- “Not all patients are eligible for targeted therapy. Biomarker or molecular testing may be required to determine whether the tumour has a specific target that can be treated,” — Dr. Gupta
- “In this context, ‘progressed’ generally means that the cancer has grown or new areas of disease have been observed, even while on treatment,” — Dr. Gupta
Implications for Patients
The update underscores the importance of continual monitoring in ovarian and peritoneal cancers, as disease can recur or spread even after remission. When progression is detected, oncologists may consider targeted agents, provided molecular testing confirms a viable target. Patients and families should discuss potential benefits, side-effects, and eligibility criteria with their oncology team.
What's Next
Ali’s care team will pursue biomarker testing to identify actionable mutations and will integrate the targeted regimen with ongoing clinical assessment. Continued imaging and follow-up will determine the effectiveness of the new therapy and guide any further treatment adjustments.