Cancer Treatment Cost In India | Pre & Post Cancer Cost In India

The cost of cancer treatment in India can vary widely based on the type and stage of cancer, the kind of treatment, and the hospital where treatment is provided. In general, the cost of cancer treatment in India is lower than in many other countries due to lower labor costs, prices of medicines and equipment, and the availability of generic drugs.

In India, the average cost of cancer treatment is Rs 5,00,000, ranging from Rs 90,000 to Rs 28,00,000. In addition to the cost of treatment, other costs are associated with cancer treatment, such as travel, accommodation, and other miscellaneous expenses. Depending on the treatment and duration, these costs can add up to several lakhs of rupees.

In comparison, the cost of cancer treatment in other countries such as the USA, the UK, and Australia are considerably higher. The cost of treatment can range anywhere from USD 5,000 to USD 1,00,000. The high cost of treatment is primarily due to the availability of more advanced technology and high-quality medical facilities. Additionally, the cost of treatment can also be affected by the availability of specialized medical personnel, the cost of medications, and the cost of travel.

Factors Affecting The Cancer Treatment Cost In India

The cost of cancer treatment can also vary based on the type of hospital or clinic where the treatment is being provided. Private hospitals and clinics charge higher rates for the same treatment than government hospitals or charitable organizations. It is important to remember that cancer treatment is an expensive process, and it is essential to have a financial plan in place before embarking on any treatment. In addition to the cost of treatment, it is crucial to factor in the price of medication, travel, and other expenses associated with the treatment.

1. Type of Treatment: The type of cancer treatment chosen can significantly impact the cost of cancer treatment in India. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and other cancer treatments all have different costs associated with them. For example, chemotherapy may cost less than surgery, but radiation therapy may cost more.

2. Location of Treatment: The location of cancer treatment can also affect the cost of treatment in India. Treatment in rural areas may cost less than in urban areas due to lower overhead costs, such as lower cost of medical supplies and lower wages for medical staff.

3. Affordability: Affordability is a significant factor affecting the cost of cancer treatment in India. Many people do not have the means to pay for expensive treatments, so they may have to opt for cheaper treatments.

4. Insurance Coverage: Insurance coverage can also affect the cost of cancer treatment in India. If the patient has insurance, some of the costs may be covered, lowering the overall cost of treatment.

5. Government Subsidies: The government of India provides subsidies to cancer patients who cannot afford the cost of treatment. This can help reduce the treatment cost for those who cannot afford it.

6. Availability of Drugs: The availability of drugs for cancer treatment can also affect the cost of treatment in India. If the drugs are not available in the country, they may have to be imported, which can add to the cost of treatment.

Types Of Cancer Treatment Available In India And Cost Of Each Treatment

1. Surgery: Surgery is one of the most common treatments for cancer in India. It is used to remove tumors and other abnormal growths from the body. Depending on the kind and stage of cancer, surgery may involve removing the entire tumor or just a part of it. The surgery cost for cancer in India depends on the hospital where it is performed and the type of surgery. Usually, the surgery cost for cancer in India ranges from Rs. 3 lakhs to Rs. 11 lakhs.

2. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is usually used with other treatments, such as radiation therapy. The cost of chemotherapy in India depends on the type of drugs used and the number of cycles required. The price of chemotherapy for cancer in India can vary from Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 2 lakh.

3. Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It is used to shrink tumors and slow the growth of cancer cells. The cost of radiation therapy for cancer in India depends on the type of radiation used and the number of treatments required. Generally, the cost of radiation therapy for cancer in India ranges from Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 10 lakhs.

4. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy uses drugs or other substances to boost the body’s natural ability to fight cancer. It is used to strengthen the body’s natural defenses against cancer cells. The cost of immunotherapy for cancer in India depends on the type of drugs used and the number of treatments required. Generally, the cost of immunotherapy for cancer treatment in India ranges from Rs. 2 lakhs to Rs. 5 lakhs.

5. Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs or other substances to specifically target cancer cells and stop them from growing or spreading. The cost of targeted therapy for cancer in India depends on the type of drugs used and the number of treatments required. The cost of targeted therapy for cancer treatment in India ranges from Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 2 lakh.

6. Robotic Surgery- A minimally invasive surgery where an oncologist uses robotic arms to perform surgical operations. It is used for cancer treatments such as prostatectomy, nephrectomy, and gastrectomy. It is more precise and less invasive than traditional open surgery. The cost of robotic surgery for cancer treatment in India may vary depending on the type of surgery and the hospital. The cost can range between Rs. 1,00,000 and Rs. 5,00,000.

7. Bone Marrow Transplant- Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) is a life-saving procedure used to treat different types of cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. BMT involves transferring healthy bone marrow cells from a donor to a patient to replace the damaged bone marrow cells caused by cancer or other conditions. The cost of a bone marrow transplant for cancer treatment in India ranges from Rs. 10 lakhs to Rs. 25 lakhs, depending on the type of transplant, the hospital, and the patient’s condition.

 Pre-Treatment Expenses Involved In Cancer Treatment In India

Pre-treatment costs for cancer treatment in India include the cost of diagnostic tests such as blood tests, scans, and biopsies, the cost of appointments with specialists, the cost of medications prescribed in preparation for treatment, and the cost of travel, lodging, and meals for the patient and their family members. Appointments with specialists such as oncologists, surgeons, and radiation oncologists are also important and expensive. 

• Diagnostic Tests: Diagnostic tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, PET scans, ultrasounds, biopsies, and blood tests are required to confirm the presence of cancer and identify the stage of the disease. The cost of these tests varies depending on the test type and the hospital’s location. It may range from Rs. 500 to Rs. 25,000. Diagnostic tests are necessary to diagnose the type and stage of cancer accurately. These tests can be costly and out of reach for many individuals.

• Medications: Depending on the type of cancer, the doctor may prescribe additional medications. The cost of these cancer medications varies depending on the type and brand. It may range from Rs. 100 to Rs. 10,000. Medications prescribed in preparation for treatment can be expensive as well. 

• Consultation Fees: Patients may need to consult a doctor or specialist before starting the treatment. The consultation fees for these services may range from Rs. 500 to Rs. 5,000.

Finally, the cost of travel, lodging, and meals for the patient and their family members can add up quickly and strain a family’s finances. These pre-treatment costs can be overwhelming for many individuals and families and are a significant barrier to cancer treatment in India.

Post-Treatment Expenses Involved In Cancer Treatment In India

The post-treatment expenses for cancer treatment in India depend on the type of cancer, the treatment received, and the resources available. Generally, post-treatment expenses include hospital bills, medication costs, follow-up visits, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, laboratory tests, and other medical expenses. 

• Hospital Bills: Hospital bills can be pretty high depending on the type of cancer. This includes the cost of hospital stays, medicines, and doctor’s fees.

• Medication Costs: The cost depends on the type of drugs the doctor prescribes. It also depends on the kind of pharmacy used.

• Follow-up visits: Follow-up visits with the doctor are essential to monitor the patient’s health and to ensure that cancer has not returned. The cost of such visits varies from hospital to hospital.

• Laboratory Tests: Laboratory tests are essential to monitor the patient’s health and detect any cancer recurrence. The cost of such tests varies depending on the type of test conducted.

• Other Medical Costs: Medical costs may include medical equipment, home nursing services, and additional physiotherapy and occupational therapy. It is vital to keep track of all such expenses so that adequate funds can be allocated for them.

How To Overcome The High Cost Of Cancer Treatment In India?

1. Research and compare medical treatments: Research and comparing treatments can help a person find the most cost-effective treatment plan. 

2. Ask for discounts: When it comes to cancer treatments, many hospitals and clinics offer discounts to those who cannot afford the total cost of treatment. 

3. Seek financial assistance: Government and non-governmental organizations provide financial aid to those facing the high cost of cancer treatment in India. 

4. Explore alternative treatments: Alternative treatments such as homoeopathy, naturopathy, and acupuncture may be less expensive than conventional cancer treatments. 

5. Consider clinical trials: Clinical trials are an excellent option for those who cannot afford the high cost of cancer treatment in India. 

6. Invest in health insurance: Investing in health insurance can help reduce the financial burden of cancer treatment. 

7. Raise funds for cancer treatment: Online crowdfunding is a great way that helps people with cancer in India overcome the high cost of treatment. Crowdfunding platforms provide an easy way for people to donate money to those in need. These donations are used to pay for medical bills, medication, travel expenses, and other costs associated with cancer treatment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cancer treatment costs in India vary widely based on the type of cancer, the treatment needed, and the hospital where treatment is administered. While the price of cancer treatment in India is much lower than in Western countries, it can still financially burden many patients. However, the Indian government has taken several steps to make cancer treatment more affordable, such as providing free or subsidized treatment for specific categories of patients, subsidizing expensive medicines, and giving tax breaks for hospitals and other healthcare providers.