Breast Cancer Treatment Cost In India

Breast cancer is one of the leading health concerns for women in India, and understanding the treatment options and costs involved is essential for early and effective care. The cost of Breast Cancer Treatment in India is considerably lower compared to many other countries, making it an affordable option for patients seeking high-quality care. This blog will provide detailed insights into the cost of breast cancer treatment in India and highlight some of the top hospitals renowned for offering world-class breast cancer care. 

About Breast Cancer Treatment Cost In India

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women globally, and India is no exception. Treatment in India is known for being more affordable compared to many other countries while still offering advanced medical care. However, the total cost of breast cancer treatment can vary widely depending on the stage of cancer, type of treatment, choice of hospital, and the city where the treatment is being sought.

Average Cost of Breast Cancer Treatment in India

The cost of breast cancer treatment in India typically ranges from ₹2,00,000 to ₹10,00,000. 

Bifurcation of Different Costs Involved

Breast cancer treatment involves several components, and each contributes to the overall expense. Below is a detailed breakdown:

1. Diagnostic Costs

Accurate diagnosis is the first step in breast cancer treatment. Costs for diagnostic tests can vary depending on the hospital and technology used:

• Mammography: INR 1,000 to INR 5,000
• Ultrasound: INR 1,500 to INR 4,000
• Biopsy: INR 5,000 to INR 15,000
• MRI or PET Scan: INR 10,000 to INR 25,000
• Blood Tests and Tumor Markers: INR 2,000 to INR 10,000

2. Surgical Costs

Surgery is a common treatment for breast cancer, and its cost varies based on the procedure:

• Lumpectomy: INR 80,000 to INR 2,50,000
• Mastectomy: INR 1,50,000 to INR 4,00,000
• Reconstructive Surgery: INR 1,50,000 to INR 5,00,000

3. Chemotherapy Costs

Chemotherapy is often a cornerstone of breast cancer treatment, with costs varying per session:

• Per Session: INR 15,000 to INR 2,00,000
• Full Course: INR 1,50,000 to INR 20,00,000 (depending on the number of sessions and drugs used)

4. Radiation Therapy Costs

Radiation therapy is another critical component of breast cancer treatment:

• Full Course: INR 2,00,000 to INR 6,00,000
• Per Session: INR 10,000 to INR 30,000

5. Targeted Therapy Costs

Targeted therapy is an advanced treatment option used for certain types of breast cancer:

• Herceptin or Similar Drugs: INR 2,50,000 to INR 6,00,000 per cycle

6. Hormone Therapy Costs

Hormone therapy is used for hormone receptor-positive breast cancers:

• Tamoxifen or Similar Drugs: INR 500 to INR 5,000 per month

7. Hospitalization Costs

Costs for hospitalisation depend on the duration of stay and the type of hospital (government vs. private):

• Private Hospitals: INR 5,000 to INR 25,000 per day
• Government/Charitable Hospitals: INR 1,000 to INR 5,000 per day

8. Follow-up and Rehabilitation Costs

Post-treatment care is crucial to monitor for recurrence and manage side effects:

• Follow-up Consultations: INR 500 to INR 2,000 per visit
• Physiotherapy: INR 500 to INR 2,500 per session
• Nutritional Support and Supplements: INR 1,000 to INR 5,000 per month

For a broader understanding of various treatment and surgery costs across India, check out our Comprehensive Guide to Treatment & Surgery Costs in India. This guide provides valuable insights into the costs associated with a wide range of surgeries and treatments in India, helping patients and their families make informed financial decisions.

Types Of Breast Cancer Treatment & Their Cost In India

Breast cancer treatment in India is both advanced and affordable compared to many other countries. The treatment type and associated costs vary based on factors like the cancer stage, hospital location, and chosen therapy. 

1. Surgery

Surgery is often the first line of treatment for breast cancer. The type of surgery depends on the tumour size and stage of cancer.

• Lumpectomy: A breast-conserving surgery where only the tumour and some surrounding tissues are removed.
  • Cost: ₹1,90,000 – ₹3,50,000
• Mastectomy: Involves the removal of one or both breasts. This procedure is usually recommended for advanced-stage cancer or patients with a high risk of recurrence.
  • Cost: ₹2,00,000 – ₹4,20,000
• Reconstructive Surgery: Optional surgery to restore the breast’s appearance after a mastectomy.
  • Cost: ₹1,00,000 – ₹3,00,000

2. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves using anti-cancer drugs to destroy cancer cells. It is either given before surgery (to shrink tumours) or after surgery (to kill any remaining cancer cells).

• Per Cycle Cost: ₹1,60,000 – ₹2,07,000
• Total Cost: ₹8,00,000 – ₹20,00,000 (depending on the number of cycles)

3. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy utilises high-energy rays to target & kill cancer cells. It is commonly used after surgery to prevent recurrence.

• Total Cost: ₹1,00,000 – ₹5,50,000

4. Targeted Therapy

This advanced treatment targets specific cancer cells based on their molecular characteristics. It is especially effective for HER2-positive breast cancers.

• Per Session Cost: ₹2,80,000 – ₹3,00,000
• Total Cost: ₹5,00,000 – ₹20,00,000 (depending on the number of sessions)

5. Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy blocks or lowers hormone levels in the body to slow or stop the growth of hormone-sensitive tumours. It is often prescribed for hormone receptor-positive breast cancers.

• Monthly Cost of Medication: ₹5,000 – ₹10,000

6. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy works by boosting the immune system to tackle cancer. It is used for certain advanced-stage breast cancers.

• Per Session Cost: ₹1,25,000 – ₹3,00,000
• Total Cost: ₹10,00,000 – ₹30,00,000 (multiple sessions)

Summary Table of Breast Cancer Treatment Costs in India

Treatment Type	Cost (INR)
Lumpectomy	₹1,90,000 – ₹3,50,000
Mastectomy	₹2,00,000 – ₹4,20,000
Reconstructive Surgery	₹1,00,000 – ₹3,00,000
Chemotherapy (Total)	₹8,00,000 – ₹20,00,000
Radiation Therapy (Total)	₹1,00,000 – ₹5,50,000
Targeted Therapy (Total)	₹5,00,000 – ₹20,00,000
Hormone Therapy (Monthly)	₹5,000 – ₹10,000
Immunotherapy (Total)	₹10,00,000 – ₹30,00,000

If you want to explore costs associated with different treatments and surgeries across India, refer to our Comprehensive Guide to Treatment & Surgery Costs in India for detailed information.

Cost Of Breast Cancer Treatment In Different Cities In India

Here’s a breakdown of the approximate treatment costs in India’s major cities:

City	Starting Price (INR)	Maximum Price (INR)	Insights
Bangalore	₹90,000	₹15,00,000	Home to several top hospitals like Narayana Health and Manipal Hospitals, offering advanced therapies and multi-specialty cancer care.
Chennai	₹85,500	₹14,25,000	Known for high-quality yet affordable cancer treatment, with leading facilities like Apollo Hospitals and MIOT International.
Delhi	₹94,500	₹15,75,000	Houses premium cancer treatment centres like AIIMS, Max Super Specialty Hospital, and Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute.
Gurgaon	₹90,000	₹15,00,000	Hosts state-of-the-art cancer care facilities such as Medanta – The Medicity and Artemis Hospitals, providing advanced treatments.
Hyderabad	₹90,000	₹15,00,000	It features hospitals like Yashoda Cancer Institute and Apollo Hospitals, which specialise in oncology with cutting-edge technologies.
Mumbai	₹99,000	₹16,50,000	Known for premium healthcare institutions like Tata Memorial Hospital and Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, offering comprehensive cancer treatments.
Pune	₹90,000	₹15,00,000	It offers reliable treatment options at hospitals such as Jehangir Hospital and Ruby Hall Clinic, known for their affordable oncology care.

Factors Influencing the Breast Cancer Treatment Cost in India

1. Stage of Cancer

The stage of breast cancer significantly impacts the cost of treatment:

• Early Stage (Stage 1 or 2): Treatment may involve surgery (like lumpectomy or mastectomy) and minimal chemotherapy or radiation therapy, resulting in relatively lower costs.
• Advanced Stage (Stage 3 or 4): Requires multiple cycles of chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and possibly palliative care, which increases expenses significantly.

The earlier cancer is detected, the simpler and more affordable the treatment tends to be.

2. Type of Treatment

Different treatments come with other costs, depending on the complexity and duration of the procedures.

• Surgery Costs: Lumpectomy and mastectomy are generally more affordable, but reconstructive surgeries add to the overall expense.
• Chemotherapy & Radiation Therapy: These treatments are expensive, especially if multiple cycles or sessions are required.
• Targeted and Immunotherapy: These advanced therapies are costlier than traditional treatments because they use specialised drugs tailored to the patient’s cancer type.
• Hormone Therapy: Ongoing medication costs for hormone therapy can add up over time.

3. Choice of Hospital

The type of hospital chosen for treatment plays a significant role in determining costs:

• Government Hospitals: These offer highly subsidised or even free treatments, but waiting times can be long, and the availability of advanced treatments may be limited.
• Private Hospitals: Provide state-of-the-art facilities and shorter waiting times but are much more expensive.
• Charitable Institutions: Some non-profit organisations and trusts offer affordable cancer treatment options, especially for underprivileged patients.

4. Hospital Location

The geographical location of the hospital affects the cost of treatment:

• Metropolitan Cities: Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Chennai have some of the best cancer treatment hospitals in India. However, the costs in these cities are higher due to advanced facilities, better infrastructure, and higher living expenses.
• Smaller Cities and Towns: Costs are generally lower in smaller towns, but access to advanced therapies and highly specialised doctors might be limited.

5. Duration of Treatment

The length of time needed for treatment depends on the cancer stage and the type of therapies involved:

• Early-stage treatments may last for a few months.
• Advanced stages often require treatment over several years, significantly increasing overall expenses due to prolonged care.

6. Diagnostic and Monitoring Costs

Before and during treatment, patients need to undergo numerous tests for diagnosis and monitoring. These include:

• Biopsies and Imaging: Tests like mammograms, ultrasounds, MRIs, and PET scans are essential for diagnosis but can add significantly to the total cost.
• Pathology Tests: Tumor marker tests and genetic testing to determine the type of cancer are necessary but expensive.
• Regular Follow-ups: Periodic scans and blood tests during and after treatment to monitor progress also increase the overall cost.

7. Additional Supportive Care

Cancer treatment often requires additional care that adds to the cost:

• Medications: Pain relief, anti-nausea drugs, and medications to manage the side effects of chemotherapy or radiation can be expensive.
• Nutritional Support: Maintaining a proper diet is essential for recovery, and dietary supplements may add to expenses.
• Palliative Care: For patients with advanced cancer, palliative care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life can increase costs.

8. Travel and Accommodation

Travel and lodging expenses can significantly add to the total cost for patients travelling from smaller towns to big cities for treatment. This includes:

• Travel costs for the patient and family members.
• Accommodation near the treatment centre or the treatment duration will be provided.
• Food and daily living expenses during hospital visits.

9. Patient’s Overall Health

Patients with pre-existing conditions or other health complications may require additional care, tests, or medications, increasing the cost. For example:

• Patients with diabetes or heart conditions may need extra monitoring during chemotherapy or surgery.
• Infections or complications during treatment can lead to hospitalisations, adding to expenses.

10. Accessibility to Advanced Treatments

Advanced treatments like robotic surgery, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy are more expensive due to their high technology costs and limited availability. While these treatments improve survival rates, they are only accessible in certain high-end hospitals, especially in metropolitan areas.

10 Best Hospitals For Breast Cancer Treatment In India

1. Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai

• Established Year: 1941
• History: One of India’s oldest and most renowned cancer centres, offering cutting-edge oncology services.
• Achievements in Breast Cancer Treatment: Pioneers introduce advanced treatments like breast-conserving surgery and targeted therapies in India.
• Milestones: Treated over 200,000 breast cancer cases with high success rates.
• Innovations: Utilizes genomic profiling to offer personalised treatment plans, including precision medicine for HER2-positive and triple-negative breast cancers.
• Volume of Procedures: Conducts approximately 5,000 breast cancer surgeries annually, alongside thousands of chemotherapy and radiation sessions.
• Success Rates: Survival rates for early-stage breast cancer patients exceed 90%.
• Accreditations: Recognized as a WHO Collaborating Centre for Cancer Treatment and Research.
• Awards & Recognitions: Regularly ranked among the top cancer hospitals in Asia by global health organisations.

2. AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences), New Delhi

• Established Year: 1956
• History: A premier government hospital and research institution offering world-class oncology services at affordable costs.
• Achievements in Breast Cancer Treatment: One of the first institutions in India to introduce breast cancer screening programs for early detection.
• Milestones: Successfully performed thousands of breast conservation surgeries and complex reconstructions.
• Innovations: Advanced imaging technologies like PET-CT scans and targeted radiation therapies are used for precision treatment.
• Volume of Procedures: Treats over 10,000 breast cancer patients annually, including surgical and non-surgical interventions.
• Success Rates: High survival rates, with a focus on early-stage diagnosis and multidisciplinary care.
• Accreditations: NABH-accredited and recognised as a centre of excellence by the Indian government.
• Awards & Recognitions: Recipient of numerous awards for excellence in cancer research and treatment.

3. Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon

• Established Year: 2012
• History: A state-of-the-art multi-specialty hospital with a dedicated oncology unit.
• Achievements in Breast Cancer Treatment: Expertise in minimally invasive surgeries and advanced radiotherapy techniques like IMRT and IGRT.
• Milestones: Treated over 15,000 breast cancer cases with personalised care plans.
• Innovations: Pioneered the use of intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) for select breast cancer cases, reducing overall treatment time.
• Volume of Procedures: Handles approximately 2,000 breast cancer cases annually, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.
• Success Rates: Consistently high success rates in early and advanced-stage breast cancer cases.
• Accreditations: NABH, JCI-certified.
• Awards & Recognitions: Ranked as one of India’s best cancer care centres by multiple healthcare surveys.

4. Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

• Established Year: 1983
• History: One of India’s largest and most advanced hospital networks, focusing on comprehensive cancer care.
• Achievements in Breast Cancer Treatment: Leaders in robotic-assisted surgeries and advanced diagnostic techniques like molecular imaging.
• Milestones: Introduced the Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, offering cutting-edge radiation therapy for complex breast cancer cases.
• Innovations: Incorporates AI-driven tools for treatment planning and early detection of breast cancer.
• Volume of Procedures: Treats over 3,000 breast cancer patients annually, offering holistic care, including reconstructive surgery and palliative care.
• Success Rates: High success rates, particularly in early-stage and HER2-positive breast cancers.
• Accreditations: NABH, JCI-certified.
• Awards & Recognitions: Recipient of the Frost & Sullivan Healthcare Excellence Award for oncology services.

5. Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Center, New Delhi

• Established Year: 1996
• History: India’s leading cancer care institute dedicated to research and advanced oncology treatments.
• Achievements in Breast Cancer Treatment: Offers comprehensive breast cancer treatment programs, including advanced chemotherapy protocols and precision surgery.
• Milestones: Successfully treated over 50,000 breast cancer cases, with a focus on early detection and prevention strategies.
• Innovations: Introduced cryotherapy for breast cancer patients and advanced molecular diagnostics to customise treatment plans.
• Volume of Procedures: Conducts over 2,500 breast cancer surgeries annually, alongside extensive chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
• Success Rates: Achieves 5-year survival rates exceeding 85% for early-stage breast cancer.
• Accreditations: NABH, NABL-certified.
• Awards & Recognitions: Received accolades for its contributions to cancer care research and treatment accessibility.

6. HCG Cancer Centre, Bangalore (Multiple Locations)

• Established Year: 1989
• History: A pioneer in cancer care in India, offering state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment services.
• Achievements in Breast Cancer Treatment: Leaders in breast-conserving surgery and advanced radiation therapies like stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT).
• Milestones: Treated over 20,000 breast cancer patients across its centres nationwide.
• Innovations: First in India to adopt CyberKnife technology for non-invasive treatment of metastatic breast cancer.
• Volume of Procedures: Handles over 3,000 breast cancer cases annually.
• Success Rates: Exceptional survival rates, particularly in patients receiving integrated care approaches.
• Accreditations: NABH-certified and part of the International Association of Cancer Institutes.
• Awards & Recognitions: Recognized globally for innovations in radiation oncology.

7. Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore

• Established Year: 1900
• History: A prestigious medical college and hospital known for its excellence in healthcare and education.
• Achievements in Breast Cancer Treatment: Focuses on evidence-based practices and multidisciplinary approaches to breast cancer management.
• Milestones: Successfully conducted over 10,000 breast cancer surgeries and developed community-based screening programs.
• Innovations: Introduced cost-effective diagnostic protocols to make breast cancer care more accessible to rural populations.
• Volume of Procedures: Treats approximately 2,000 breast cancer patients annually.
• Success Rates: High success rates, especially in early-stage detection and conservative surgeries.
• Accreditations: NABH-certified.
• Awards & Recognitions: Honored for community outreach programs in cancer care by national healthcare organisations.

8. Yashoda Cancer Institute, Hyderabad

• Established Year: 1989
• History: A super-specialty cancer care hospital known for its advanced infrastructure and comprehensive treatment options.
• Achievements in Breast Cancer Treatment: Renowned for breast-conserving surgeries and innovative chemotherapy protocols.
• Milestones: Treated more than 15,000 breast cancer patients with excellent clinical outcomes.
• Innovations: Uses high-dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy and immunotherapy to target aggressive breast cancers.
• Volume of Procedures: Handles over 2,500 breast cancer cases annually.
• Success Rates: High success rates, with survival exceeding 90% in patients diagnosed early.
• Accreditations: NABH, NABL-certified.
• Awards & Recognitions: Recognized as a center of excellence for oncology by Indian healthcare bodies.

9. Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS), Kochi

• Established Year: 1998
• History: A world-class tertiary care hospital known for its comprehensive oncology department and advanced breast cancer treatments.
• Achievements in Breast Cancer Treatment: Known for introducing advanced techniques like oncoplastic breast surgery and targeted therapies.
• Milestones: Successfully treated over 12,000 breast cancer cases, emphasising minimally invasive techniques and post-surgical reconstruction.
• Innovations: Offers molecular diagnostics and gene therapy for breast cancer patients, improving treatment personalisation.
• Volume of Procedures: Conducts approximately 1,500 breast cancer surgeries annually and provides advanced chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
• Success Rates: Achieves high survival rates, especially in patients diagnosed early, with a focus on preserving quality of life.
• Accreditations: NABH, JCI-certified.
• Awards & Recognitions: Recognized for its research contributions in breast oncology and awarded for excellence in patient care by national healthcare bodies.

10. Manipal Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Bengaluru

• Established Year: 1991
• History: Part of the Manipal Hospitals network, this centre is a leading provider of integrated cancer care.
• Achievements in Breast Cancer Treatment: Expertise in advanced techniques like sentinel lymph node biopsy and breast-conserving surgeries.
• Milestones: Treated over 10,000 breast cancer patients, focusing on early detection and multidisciplinary care.
• Innovations: Pioneered advanced radiotherapy techniques like VMAT (Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy) for precise tumour targeting.
• Volume of Procedures: Handles around 2,000 breast cancer cases annually, including surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
• Success Rates: High success rates with 5-year survival exceeding 85% in early-stage patients.
• Accreditations: NABH-certified.
• Awards & Recognitions: Frequently ranked among the top oncology centres in India by healthcare surveys and awarded for its patient-centric care approach.

Conclusion

Breast cancer treatment in India is accessible, affordable, and highly effective, thanks to advanced medical facilities and experienced healthcare professionals. From early diagnosis to cutting-edge therapies, patients can access world-class care, making India a preferred destination for cancer treatment.

The cost of breast cancer treatment can place a significant financial burden on patients and their families. Crowdfunding platforms offer a lifeline, enabling individuals to raise funds for their treatment through the support of friends, family, and compassionate donors. Patients can overcome financial barriers and focus on their recovery by sharing their stories on a trusted crowdfunding platform.

For a detailed overview of treatment and surgery expenses in India, visit our Comprehensive Guide to Treatment & Surgery Costs in India to make informed decisions.

FAQs Related To Breast Cancer

1. How Much Does Breast Cancer Treatment Cost?
The cost of breast cancer treatment in India varies depending on the type and stage of cancer, the treatment plan, and the hospital. On average, expenses can range from ₹2,00,000 to ₹10,00,000, covering surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other procedures. Costs may increase for advanced therapies or personalised treatment plans.

2. Can Breast Cancer Be Cured?
Yes, breast cancer can often be cured, especially when diagnosed and treated in its early stages. Modern medical advancements, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies, have significantly improved survival rates.

3. How To Prevent Breast Cancer?
While breast cancer cannot always be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk. These include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Regular physical activity
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Avoiding smoking
• Following a balanced diet
• Regular breast cancer screenings for early detection

4. Is Breast Cancer Hereditary?
Yes, breast cancer can be hereditary. Genetic mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes significantly increase the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers. If you have a family history of these cancers, genetic testing and counselling are recommended.

5. How To Diagnose Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is diagnosed through a combination of methods:

• Self-examination: Regularly checking for unusual lumps or changes in the breast.
• Clinical breast exam: Performed by a healthcare professional.
• Imaging tests: Mammography, ultrasound, and MRI scans are commonly used.
• Biopsy: A sample of tissue is analysed to confirm the presence of cancerous cells.

6. Is Chemotherapy Painful For Breast Cancer?
The chemotherapy process itself is not painful, as it involves administering medication orally or intravenously. However, patients may experience side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and hair loss, which can be challenging but are manageable with proper medical support.

7. What Is Stage 4 Breast Cancer?
Stage 4, or metastatic breast cancer, occurs when the cancer has spread to distant parts of the body, such as the liver, bones, lungs, or brain. While it is not curable, treatments like chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies can help manage symptoms and extend life expectancy.

8. Where Are Most Breast Cancer Lumps Found?
Most breast cancer lumps are found in the upper outer quadrant of the breast, near the armpit. However, lumps can develop in any part of the breast.

9. How Many Stages Of Breast Cancer Are There?
Breast cancer is classified into 5 stages:

• Stage 0: Non-invasive cancer (in situ)
• Stage 1: Early-stage invasive cancer
• Stage 2: Larger tumours or cancer spread to nearby lymph nodes
• Stage 3: Advanced cancer spreads to surrounding tissues and lymph nodes
• Stage 4: Metastatic cancer that has spread to distant organs

10. What Are The 4 Types Of Breast Cancer?
The main types of breast cancer include:

• Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): Non-invasive cancer within the milk ducts
• Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): Cancer that spreads beyond the ducts
• Triple-negative breast Cancer: An aggressive type lacking hormone receptors
• HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: Driven by excess HER2 protein production

11. Why Is Breast Cancer So Common?
Breast cancer is common due to factors such as genetic predisposition, hormonal changes, increased life expectancy, and lifestyle influences like diet, obesity, and alcohol consumption. Early detection and lifestyle modifications can help reduce risk.

12. How Long Can You Live With Untreated Breast Cancer?
The survival time for untreated breast cancer varies depending on the cancer’s type and progression. However, without treatment, the disease typically advances, significantly reducing life expectancy.

13. What Is Stage 3 Breast Cancer?
Stage 3 breast cancer is an advanced stage where the tumour may have spread to nearby lymph nodes and tissues but not distant organs. Aggressive treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, is essential to manage this stage effectively.