Oral cancer treatment cost in India depends on several factors, such as the stage of cancer, type of treatment required, hospital location, and the overall health condition of the patient. Oral cancer is a serious condition that affects various parts of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and throat. It is commonly caused by tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor oral hygiene. Early detection and timely treatment can significantly improve survival rates, making it essential for patients to understand the treatment process and its costs.
In India, oral cancer treatment is available at world-class hospitals with expert oncologists and advanced medical technology. The treatment generally includes surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy, depending on the severity of the disease. While India offers more affordable treatment options compared to Western countries, the expenses can still be a financial burden for many patients. This blog will provide a detailed breakdown of oral cancer treatment cost in India, covering different treatment options, diagnostic expenses, and post-treatment care. Additionally, we will highlight the top hospitals in India that specialize in oral cancer treatment, ensuring that patients have access to the best possible care.
Table of Contents
- Oral Cancer Treatment Cost in India (2025)
- Factors Influencing the Cost of Mouth Cancer Treatment in India
- Cost Of Oral Cancer Treatment In Different Cities In India
- Government vs. Private Hospital Cost Comparison For Oral Cancer Treatment In India
- Top 10 Hospitals For Oral Cancer Treatment In India
- What Is The Success Rate Of Mouth Cancer Treatment In India?
- Risk Factors Of Mouth Cancer
- Signs & Symptoms Of Oral Cancer
- Conclusion
- FAQs Related to Oral Cancer
Oral Cancer Treatment Cost in India (2025)
The cost of oral cancer treatment in India depends on various factors such as the stage of cancer, type of treatment, hospital choice, and patient health condition.
Average Cost of Oral Cancer Treatment in India
- Minimum Cost: ₹1,00,000
- Average Cost: ₹2,50,000 – ₹5,00,000
- Maximum Cost: ₹8,00,000 – ₹15,00,000 (for advanced-stage treatment or premium hospitals)
Cost Based On Treatment Type
| Treatment Type | Estimated Cost (INR) |
| Surgery (Tumor Removal) | ₹1,50,000 – ₹5,00,000 |
| Chemotherapy (per cycle) | ₹50,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
| Radiation Therapy | ₹1,50,000 – ₹4,00,000 |
| Targeted Therapy (per cycle) | ₹1,50,000 – ₹3,00,000 |
| Immunotherapy (per session) | ₹2,50,000 – ₹5,00,000 |
| Reconstructive Surgery (if needed) | ₹2,00,000 – ₹6,00,000 |
Bifurcation of Different Costs Involved in Oral Cancer Treatment
Diagnosis & Initial Tests
Before starting treatment, multiple diagnostic tests are required to confirm oral cancer and determine the stage.
| Test Name | Estimated Cost (INR) |
| Consultation with Oncologist | ₹1,500 – ₹5,000 |
| Biopsy | ₹3,000 – ₹10,000 |
| MRI Scan | ₹7,000 – ₹15,000 |
| CT Scan | ₹5,000 – ₹12,000 |
| PET Scan | ₹15,000 – ₹30,000 |
| Blood Tests | ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 |
Treatment Costs
The treatment method depends on cancer stage, tumor size, and patient health condition.
a) Surgery (Tumor Removal)
- Cost: ₹1,50,000 – ₹5,00,000
- Types of Surgery:
- Glossectomy (tongue removal)
- Maxillectomy (jaw bone removal)
- Mandibulectomy (lower jaw removal)
- Neck Dissection (lymph node removal)
b) Chemotherapy
- Cost: ₹50,000 – ₹1,50,000 per cycle
- Usually 6-8 cycles are required.
- Common drugs: Cisplatin, Carboplatin, Paclitaxel
c) Radiation Therapy
- Cost: ₹1,50,000 – ₹4,00,000
- Required for advanced-stage oral cancer
- Types:
- External Beam Radiation
- Brachytherapy (internal radiation)
d) Targeted Therapy
- Cost: ₹1,50,000 – ₹3,00,000 per cycle
- Drugs like Cetuximab are used for specific genetic mutations.
e) Immunotherapy
- Cost: ₹2,50,000 – ₹5,00,000 per session
- Common drugs: Pembrolizumab, Nivolumab
f) Reconstructive Surgery (Post-Treatment)
- Cost: ₹2,00,000 – ₹6,00,000
- Needed if: Large part of tongue, jaw, or face is removed.
Additional Costs
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost (INR) |
| Hospital Stay (per day) | ₹5,000 – ₹25,000 |
| ICU Charges (per day) | ₹10,000 – ₹40,000 |
| Medications (monthly) | ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Post-Treatment Follow-ups | ₹3,000 – ₹10,000 per visit |
| Speech Therapy (if required) | ₹1,500 – ₹5,000 per session |
Factors Influencing the Cost of Mouth Cancer Treatment in India
- Stage of Cancer: Early-stage treatment costs lower (₹1-3 lakh), while late-stage costs higher (₹8-15 lakh).
- Hospital Choice: Government hospitals offer affordable treatment, while private hospitals charge higher.
- Treatment Type: Surgery-only treatment is cheaper than chemotherapy + radiation + surgery.
- Doctor’s Expertise: Highly experienced oncologists and surgeons charge more.
- Hospital Stay & ICU Needs: More days in the hospital = higher costs.
- Post-Treatment Rehabilitation: Includes reconstructive surgery, speech therapy, and medication.
Final Summary
| Expense Type | Cost Range (INR) |
| Total Diagnosis Cost | ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Surgery | ₹1,50,000 – ₹5,00,000 |
| Chemotherapy (6-8 cycles) | ₹3,00,000 – ₹10,00,000 |
| Radiation Therapy | ₹1,50,000 – ₹4,00,000 |
| Targeted Therapy | ₹1,50,000 – ₹3,00,000 per cycle |
| Immunotherapy | ₹2,50,000 – ₹5,00,000 per session |
| Reconstructive Surgery | ₹2,00,000 – ₹6,00,000 |
| Hospital Stay (per day) | ₹5,000 – ₹25,000 |
| ICU Charges (per day) | ₹10,000 – ₹40,000 |
| Medications (monthly) | ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Speech Therapy | ₹1,500 – ₹5,000 per session |
For a broader understanding of treatment and surgery costs for various medical conditions in India, refer to our Comprehensive Guide To Treatment & Surgery Costs In India.
Cost Of Oral Cancer Treatment In Different Cities In India
The cost of oral cancer treatment varies depending on the city, hospital reputation, and availability of advanced treatment methods.
Oral Cancer Treatment Cost in Major Indian Cities
| City | Average Cost (INR) | Minimum Cost (INR) | Maximum Cost (INR) |
| Delhi | ₹2,50,000 – ₹6,00,000 | ₹1,20,000 | ₹15,00,000 |
| Mumbai | ₹2,80,000 – ₹7,00,000 | ₹1,50,000 | ₹18,00,000 |
| Bangalore | ₹2,50,000 – ₹6,50,000 | ₹1,20,000 | ₹16,00,000 |
| Chennai | ₹2,40,000 – ₹6,00,000 | ₹1,00,000 | ₹14,00,000 |
| Hyderabad | ₹2,30,000 – ₹5,50,000 | ₹1,10,000 | ₹13,00,000 |
| Pune | ₹2,50,000 – ₹6,00,000 | ₹1,20,000 | ₹15,00,000 |
| Kolkata | ₹2,20,000 – ₹5,00,000 | ₹1,00,000 | ₹12,00,000 |
| Ahmedabad | ₹2,00,000 – ₹4,50,000 | ₹90,000 | ₹11,00,000 |
| Gurgaon | ₹2,50,000 – ₹6,50,000 | ₹1,30,000 | ₹16,00,000 |
| Noida | ₹2,40,000 – ₹6,00,000 | ₹1,20,000 | ₹14,00,000 |
| Faridabad | ₹2,20,000 – ₹5,00,000 | ₹1,00,000 | ₹12,00,000 |
| Jaipur | ₹2,00,000 – ₹4,50,000 | ₹90,000 | ₹10,00,000 |
| Chandigarh | ₹2,10,000 – ₹4,80,000 | ₹95,000 | ₹11,00,000 |
| Kochi | ₹2,00,000 – ₹4,50,000 | ₹90,000 | ₹10,00,000 |
Key Observations:
- Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore have higher treatment costs due to premium hospitals, advanced technology, and specialized oncologists.
- Tier-2 cities like Jaipur, Kochi, and Chandigarh offer comparatively lower-cost treatment.
- Government hospitals in cities like AIIMS (Delhi), Tata Memorial Hospital (Mumbai), and Kidwai Memorial Institute (Bangalore) provide low-cost or free treatment options.
- Private hospitals charge higher fees but provide quicker access to advanced treatment techniques like robotic surgery and targeted therapy.
- Patients from smaller cities often travel to metro cities for better cancer care facilities.
Government vs. Private Hospital Cost Comparison For Oral Cancer Treatment In India
Cost Difference in Government & Private Hospitals
| Treatment Type | Government Hospitals (INR) | Private Hospitals (INR) |
| Consultation Fee | ₹500 – ₹2,000 | ₹1,500 – ₹5,000 |
| Biopsy | ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 |
| CT Scan | ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹5,000 – ₹12,000 |
| MRI Scan | ₹3,000 – ₹8,000 | ₹7,000 – ₹15,000 |
| PET Scan | ₹10,000 – ₹25,000 | ₹15,000 – ₹30,000 |
| Surgery (Tumor Removal) | ₹80,000 – ₹2,50,000 | ₹1,50,000 – ₹5,00,000 |
| Chemotherapy (per cycle) | ₹15,000 – ₹50,000 | ₹50,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
| Radiation Therapy | ₹50,000 – ₹1,50,000 | ₹1,50,000 – ₹4,00,000 |
| Targeted Therapy (per cycle) | ₹75,000 – ₹1,50,000 | ₹1,50,000 – ₹3,00,000 |
| Immunotherapy (per session) | ₹1,50,000 – ₹3,00,000 | ₹2,50,000 – ₹5,00,000 |
| Reconstructive Surgery | ₹1,00,000 – ₹3,00,000 | ₹2,00,000 – ₹6,00,000 |
| Hospital Stay (per day) | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹5,000 – ₹25,000 |
| ICU Charges (per day) | ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 | ₹10,000 – ₹40,000 |
| Medications (monthly) | ₹5,000 – ₹25,000 | ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 |
Comparison Between Government & Private Hospitals
| Factor | Government Hospitals | Private Hospitals |
| Cost | Lower, subsidized rates | Higher, premium rates |
| Waiting Time | Longer waiting periods | Faster access to treatment |
| Doctors & Specialists | Highly experienced but fewer in number | More specialists available |
| Advanced Technology | Limited availability | Access to latest treatments (robotic surgery, precision therapy) |
| Post-Treatment Care | Limited | Extensive follow-ups and care |
| Accommodation & Comfort | Basic wards | Private rooms, luxury options available |
| Availability of Medicines | Free or subsidized | Expensive but readily available |
| Insurance Coverage | Covered under government schemes | Private insurance required |
Top Government Hospitals for Oral Cancer Treatment in India
These hospitals offer low-cost or free cancer treatment under government schemes like Ayushman Bharat and state health insurance programs.
| Hospital Name | Location | Specialty |
| AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) | New Delhi | Advanced oncology treatments |
| Tata Memorial Hospital | Mumbai | One of India’s best cancer hospitals |
| Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology | Bangalore | Specialized oral cancer care |
| Adyar Cancer Institute | Chennai | Comprehensive cancer treatment |
| PGIMER (Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research) | Chandigarh | Low-cost cancer treatments |
| Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital | Varanasi | Free/subsidized treatment |
| JIPMER | Puducherry | Affordable cancer care |
Top 10 Hospitals For Oral Cancer Treatment In India
1. Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai
- Established Year: 1941
- History: Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH) is India’s most renowned and oldest cancer research center, managed by the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India. It has played a crucial role in oral cancer treatment advancements for decades.
- Achievements in Oral Cancer Treatment:
- Pioneered early detection and treatment programs for oral cancer in India.
- Leads India’s largest oral cancer clinical trials on immunotherapy and targeted therapy.
- Innovations:
- Flap Reconstruction Surgery – Advanced reconstructive techniques for post-surgery rehabilitation.
- Organ Preservation Protocols – Reducing the need for radical surgeries.
- Precision Radiation Therapy (IMRT & IGRT) – To minimize damage to healthy tissues.
- Volume of Procedures:
- Treats 1,500+ oral cancer cases annually, making it one of the busiest cancer hospitals in Asia.
- Success Rates:
- 85%+ survival rate for early-stage oral cancer.
- Improved outcomes for advanced cases using combined surgery, radiation, and immunotherapy.
- Accreditations:
- NABH-accredited.
- Recognized by the National Cancer Grid of India.
- Awards & Recognitions:
- Ranked India’s No.1 Cancer Hospital by Newsweek and The Week.
- WHO Excellence Award for cancer research and public health.
- Recognized by ICMR for groundbreaking research in head and neck cancers.
2. Medanta – The Medicity, Gurugram
- Established Year: 2009
- History: Medanta is one of India’s leading multi-specialty hospitals, founded by Dr. Naresh Trehan, with a world-class oncology center dedicated to treating oral and head & neck cancers.
- Achievements in Oral Cancer Treatment:
- First in North India to implement robotic-assisted surgery for oral cancer.
- Leading hospital in India for minimally invasive oral cancer surgeries.
- Innovations:
- Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy – Improves staging of oral cancers.
- Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy – Enhancing survival rates in advanced cancers.
- Microvascular Reconstructive Surgery – Helps patients regain function and aesthetics post-treatment.
- Volume of Procedures:
- Treats over 600 oral cancer cases annually.
- Success Rates:
- 90%+ survival rate in early-stage cases.
- Improved quality of life for advanced-stage patients through reconstructive surgery.
- Accreditations:
- NABH and JCI-certified.
- Recognized by National Cancer Grid.
- Awards & Recognitions:
- Winner of Best Oncology Hospital in North India by Times Health Survey.
- Recognized for Excellence in Robotic Cancer Surgery by Economic Times Healthcare Awards.
- Featured among India’s Top 3 Multi-Specialty Hospitals by Newsweek.
3. Apollo Hospitals, Chennai
- Established Year: 1983
- History: Apollo Hospitals is a pioneer in healthcare in India, with a dedicated oncology division providing world-class oral cancer treatment.
- Achievements in Oral Cancer Treatment:
- First private hospital in India to introduce proton therapy for oral and head & neck cancers.
- Leader in organ-preserving cancer treatments, reducing disfigurement.
- Innovations:
- CyberKnife & Proton Beam Therapy – High precision treatment for advanced oral cancers.
- 3D Printing in Reconstructive Surgery – Enhancing aesthetic outcomes post-treatment.
- Genomic Testing for Personalized Treatment – Tailoring therapy based on genetic makeup.
- Volume of Procedures:
- Treats over 700+ oral cancer cases yearly.
- Success Rates:
- Early-stage survival rate: 92%.
- Improved post-surgical quality of life with advanced reconstructive procedures.
- Accreditations:
- NABH and JCI-certified.
- Certified Center for Excellence in Oncology.
- Awards & Recognitions:
- Awarded Best Oncology Hospital in South India by The Week.
- Recognized for Excellence in Cancer Research by Harvard Medical International.
- Winner of the ICMR Oncology Research Excellence Award.
4. HCG Cancer Centre, Bengaluru
- Established Year: 1989
- History: HCG Cancer Centre is India’s first dedicated cancer care network, with cutting-edge technology for oral cancer treatment.
- Achievements in Oral Cancer Treatment:
- Pioneered India’s first personalized cancer therapy program.
- Robotic-assisted oral cancer surgeries successfully implemented for scarless treatment.
- Innovations:
- Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) – Reduces treatment duration.
- Genomic Testing for Cancer Therapy – Identifying high-risk patients early.
- Advanced Speech & Swallow Rehabilitation Programs – Improving post-surgery recovery.
- Volume of Procedures:
- Treats 500+ oral cancer cases per year.
- Success Rates:
- Early-stage oral cancer survival rate: 88%.
- Enhanced long-term survival for advanced cases with precision oncology.
- Accreditations:
- NABH and JCI-accredited.
- Recognized for Excellence in Oncology by ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology).
- Awards & Recognitions:
- Named Best Oncology Hospital in Bengaluru by Times Health Awards.
- Winner of Global Healthcare Excellence Award for innovation in cancer care.
- Featured in Top 10 Cancer Hospitals in Asia by Newsweek.
5. Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
- Established Year: 2001
- History: Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI) is one of India’s most advanced multi-specialty hospitals, with a dedicated Head & Neck Oncology Department for oral cancer treatment.
- Achievements in Oral Cancer Treatment:
- First hospital in India to introduce Da Vinci Robotic Surgery for head and neck cancers.
- Pioneered chemo-immunotherapy trials for advanced oral cancers.
- Innovations:
- Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) for oral cancer metastases.
- 3D Image-Guided Brachytherapy – Targeting tumors with minimal side effects.
- Advanced Free Flap Reconstruction – Enhancing post-surgical aesthetics and function.
- Volume of Procedures:
- Treats 450+ oral cancer cases yearly.
- Success Rates:
- 90% survival rate for Stage 1 & 2 oral cancer.
- Improved survival outcomes for advanced cases with multimodal therapy.
- Accreditations:
- NABH and JCI-certified.
- Approved by the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO).
- Awards & Recognitions:
- Winner of Best Multi-Specialty Hospital in India by Economic Times Healthcare Awards.
- Recognized for Excellence in Robotic Oncology Surgery by FICCI.
- Named among India’s Top 5 Oncology Hospitals by Newsweek.
6. Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai
- Established Year: 2009
- History: One of Mumbai’s most advanced cancer care centers, Kokilaben Hospital offers comprehensive oral cancer treatment, integrating surgery, radiation, and targeted therapy.
- Achievements in Oral Cancer Treatment:
- First hospital in India to use Radixact™ TomoTherapy for oral cancers.
- Leader in organ-sparing cancer treatment using IMRT and IGRT.
- Innovations:
- Image-Guided Proton Therapy (IGPT) – Precise tumor targeting for better survival outcomes.
- Artificial Intelligence-Based Cancer Diagnostics – Improving early detection rates.
- Speech and Swallowing Rehabilitation Programs – Enhancing post-treatment quality of life.
- Volume of Procedures:
- Treats 600+ oral cancer cases annually.
- Success Rates:
- Early-stage oral cancer survival rate: 92%.
- Significant improvement in patient rehabilitation post-surgery.
- Accreditations:
- NABH, JCI, and ESMO-certified.
- Awards & Recognitions:
- Winner of Best Oncology Hospital in Western India by Times Health Survey.
- Featured in Top 10 Best Cancer Hospitals in Asia by Newsweek.
- Awarded Excellence in Cancer Research & Innovation by ASSOCHAM.
7. Narayana Health, Bengaluru
- Established Year: 2000
- History: Founded by Dr. Devi Shetty, Narayana Health is one of India’s largest hospital networks, offering world-class oral cancer treatment.
- Achievements in Oral Cancer Treatment:
- Introduced Scarless Laser Surgery for early-stage oral cancer.
- First hospital in India to implement Precision Medicine Approach for Head & Neck Cancers.
- Innovations:
- Adaptive Radiation Therapy (ART) – Adjusting radiation doses based on tumor response.
- Molecular Targeted Therapy – Customizing treatment for advanced cases.
- Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Cancer Surgery – Reducing hospital stay and recovery time.
- Volume of Procedures:
- Treats 500+ oral cancer cases per year.
- Success Rates:
- 85% survival rate for early-stage oral cancer.
- Improved outcomes for chemotherapy-resistant oral cancer patients.
- Accreditations:
- NABH and JCI-accredited.
- Recognized by the International Association for Cancer Research.
- Awards & Recognitions:
- Winner of Best Oncology Hospital in South India by The Week.
- Awarded Healthcare Excellence Award in Oncology by FICCI.
- Ranked among India’s Top 5 Cancer Hospitals by Newsweek.
8. Columbia Asia Hospital, Bangalore
- Established Year: 2005
- History: Now part of Manipal Hospitals, Columbia Asia is one of Bangalore’s most advanced oncology centers, offering multidisciplinary oral cancer treatment.
- Achievements in Oral Cancer Treatment:
- Leader in radiofrequency ablation therapy for oral cancer tumors.
- First hospital in Karnataka to introduce robot-assisted surgery for oral malignancies.
- Innovations:
- High-Dose Rate (HDR) Brachytherapy – Providing focused radiation for better tumor control.
- Custom 3D-Printed Jaw Reconstruction Surgery – Restoring facial aesthetics post-treatment.
- AI-Based Oral Cancer Detection System – Improving early diagnosis accuracy.
- Volume of Procedures:
- Treats 400+ oral cancer cases yearly.
- Success Rates:
- 88% survival rate for early-stage patients.
- Improved quality of life and speech restoration programs for post-surgery patients.
- Accreditations:
- NABH and JCI-certified.
- Awards & Recognitions:
- Winner of Best Emerging Oncology Centre in India by Economic Times.
- Recognized by Harvard Medical International for cancer care excellence.
- Named among India’s Top 10 Cancer Hospitals by Newsweek.
9. Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai
- Established Year: 1973
- History: One of Mumbai’s premier multi-specialty hospitals, Jaslok has a dedicated Head & Neck Oncology Department, treating oral cancers with cutting-edge therapies.
- Achievements in Oral Cancer Treatment:
- Pioneered intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) for oral cancer.
- Leader in combined chemotherapy and radiation therapy protocols.
- Innovations:
- RapidArc Radiation Therapy – Precise, high-speed radiation delivery.
- AI-Driven Tumor Board Consultations – Providing personalized treatment plans.
- Microvascular Flap Surgery – Advanced reconstructive procedures post-surgery.
- Volume of Procedures:
- Treats 450+ oral cancer cases annually.
- Success Rates:
- 90% survival rate for early-stage cases.
- Improved functional outcomes post-surgery.
- Accreditations:
- NABH and JCI-certified.
- Awards & Recognitions:
- Winner of Healthcare Excellence Award for Cancer Treatment by CII.
- Named among India’s Best Cancer Hospitals by The Week.
- Recognized for Excellence in Radiation Oncology by ICMR.
10. Artemis Hospital, Gurugram
- Established Year: 2007
- History: Artemis Hospital is one of India’s most technologically advanced hospitals, offering comprehensive oral cancer treatment.
- Achievements in Oral Cancer Treatment:
- First hospital in India to implement AI-powered tumor grading system.
- Leader in genomic-based oral cancer treatment.
- Innovations:
- High-Precision Proton Therapy – Reducing damage to surrounding tissues.
- AI-Based Oral Cancer Screening Programs – Enhancing early detection rates.
- Minimally Invasive Endoscopic Surgery – Faster recovery and minimal scarring.
- Volume of Procedures:
- Treats 550+ oral cancer cases yearly.
- Success Rates:
- 92% survival rate in early-stage cases.
- Accreditations:
- NABH and JCI-accredited.
- Awards & Recognitions:
- Winner of Best Oncology Hospital in North India by Economic Times.
- Recognized for Excellence in Cancer Surgery by Harvard Medical International.
Final Takeaways
- Government hospitals offer highly affordable cancer care but have longer wait times.
- Private hospitals provide faster, advanced treatments but at significantly higher costs.
- Financial aid programs like Ayushman Bharat can help lower-income patients get free treatment.
- Patients from rural areas often travel to metro cities for better oral cancer treatment.
- Insurance coverage and government subsidies can drastically reduce expenses.
What Is The Success Rate Of Mouth Cancer Treatment In India?
The success rate of mouth cancer treatment in India is around 70% to 80%, depending on various factors such as the stage at diagnosis, the type and location of the tumour, the treatment modality used, and the patient’s compliance and follow-up. Early detection & treatment can improve the chances of survival & reduce the risk of complications. Some of the best hospitals in India for mouth cancer treatment are Medanta Hospital, BLK Hospital, Max Hospital, and Fortis Hospital in Delhi; Manipal Hospital and Aster R V Hospital in Bangalore; Anil Cancer Clinic in Thane; and Apollo Hospital and MIOT Hospital in Chennai.
Risk Factors Of Mouth Cancer
Like other types of cancer, the development of mouth cancer is influenced by a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Here are some of the key risk factors associated with mouth cancer:
1. Tobacco use: Tobacco use in any form, including smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco (chewing tobacco, snuff), is one of the most significant risk factors for causing mouth cancer. The harmful chemicals in tobacco products can damage the cells lining the mouth and lead to cancerous changes over time.
2. Alcohol consumption: Heavy & prolonged alcohol consumption is another risk factor for mouth cancer. The combination of alcohol and tobacco use can substantially increase the risk of developing oral cancer more than the sum of the individual risks.
3. Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection: Certain strains of HPV, particularly HPV-16 and HPV-18, are linked to an increased risk of mouth & throat cancers. HPV is a sexually transmitted infection, and engaging in unprotected sexual activity with infected partners can increase the risk of contracting the virus.
4. Betel quid and areca nut use: In some parts, particularly Southeast Asia, the habit of chewing betel quid, which often contains areca nut, slaked lime, and other ingredients, is a common practice. This habit is mainly related to a higher risk of mouth cancer.
5. Sun exposure: Prolonged and unprotected sun exposure can increase the risk of lip cancer, particularly in fair-skinned individuals.
6. Poor oral hygiene: Chronic irritation & inflammation caused by poor oral hygiene, ill-fitting dentures, or sharp teeth can increase the risk of mouth cancer.
7. Immunosuppression: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or taking immunosuppressive medications, have a higher chance of developing oral cancer.
8. Age and gender: Mouth cancer tends to occur more frequently in individuals over 45, and men have a higher risk than women.
9. Family history: A family history of oral or other cancer can increase an individual’s risk of developing mouth cancer.
10. Nutritional factors: A diet lacking in fruits and vegetables and low in essential vitamins and minerals may increase the risk of developing mouth cancer.
11. Oral lichen planus: This chronic inflammatory condition of the oral mucosa may increase the risk of mouth cancer in some cases.
Signs & Symptoms Of Oral Cancer
Early diagnosis is important for successful treatment, so knowing the signs and symptoms of mouth cancer is essential. Here are some common indicators:
1. Persistent Mouth Sores: One of the primary symptoms of mouth cancer is the development of sores or ulcers in the mouth that do not go within two weeks. These sores can be painful & may bleed.
2. Red or White Patches: Unusual red or white patches may appear inside the mouth or the tongue. These colour patches can be flat or slightly raised.
3. Pain or Discomfort: Mouth cancer can cause mouth, throat, or ear pain. This discomfort may worsen with swallowing or speaking.
4. Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): As the tumour grows, it can obstruct the normal passage of food and liquids, leading to difficulty swallowing.
5. Changes in Speech: Cancer in the mouth or tongue can alter how you speak. You may experience slurred speech or have difficulty pronouncing certain words.
6. Changes in Dentures Fit: If you wear dentures, you might notice that they suddenly start fitting poorly or become uncomfortable.
7. Swollen Lumps: Lumps or thickening of the skin or tissues in the mouth or throat may be a sign of oral cancer.
8. Numbness or Tingling: Numbness or tingling sensation in the mouth or lips could indicate nerve involvement due to cancer growth.
9. Loose Teeth: The affected area may experience loosening of teeth, unrelated to dental issues.
10. Unexplained Weight Loss: Mouth cancer, like many other cancers, can lead to unexplained weight loss and general fatigue.
11. Ear Pain: Sometimes, mouth cancer can cause ear pain, even when no infection is present.
Conclusion
In conclusion, oral cancer treatment in India is available at high-quality medical centers, offering advanced treatment methods at affordable prices. The cost of treatment depends on factors like the type of therapy required, the hospital chosen, and whether additional treatments like reconstructive surgery or rehabilitation are needed. While the expenses can be high for some patients, India has a strong network of cancer hospitals that provide effective treatment with skilled oncologists and modern medical equipment. Many hospitals also offer financial assistance programs and treatment packages to help patients manage their expenses.
For those struggling with the financial burden of oral cancer treatment, fundraising platforms have become a valuable solution. These platforms allow individuals to raise funds by sharing their stories with a larger audience, including family, friends, and generous donors. By using crowdfunding, patients can gather the necessary financial support to cover the oral cancer treatment cost in India, ensuring they receive timely and proper medical care without financial hardship.
If you’re looking for a complete breakdown of treatment and surgery costs for various medical procedures in India, visit our Comprehensive Guide To Treatment & Surgery Costs In India for in-depth insights.
FAQs Related to Oral Cancer
Is Oral Cancer Curable?
Yes, oral cancer is curable if detected early. Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy are common treatments. Early-stage oral cancer has a high survival rate, but later stages are more challenging to treat.
How to Detect Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer can be detected through:
- Self-examination: Checking for sores, white or red patches, and lumps in the mouth
- Regular dental check-ups: Dentists can spot early signs
- Biopsy and imaging tests: Confirm the presence and stage of cancer
How to Prevent Oral Cancer?
You can reduce the risk of oral cancer by:
- Avoiding tobacco and alcohol consumption
- Maintaining good oral hygiene
- Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- Using sun protection for lips
- Getting regular oral cancer screenings
How to Treat Oral Cancer?
Oral cancer treatment options include:
- Surgery: To remove tumors
- Radiation therapy: To destroy cancer cells
- Chemotherapy: To target cancer spread
- Targeted therapy & immunotherapy: Advanced treatments for late-stage cancer
How Long Can You Live With Oral Cancer?
Survival rates for oral cancer depend on the stage:
- Early-stage (Stage 1 & 2): 80–90% survival rate
- Advanced-stage (Stage 3 & 4): Lower survival rate but treatment can improve outcomes
Early detection significantly improves life expectancy.
What Causes Oral Cancer?
The main causes of oral cancer include:
- Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- HPV infection
- Poor oral hygiene
- Excessive sun exposure on lips
- Genetic factors
Is Oral Cancer Curable in India?
Yes, oral cancer is curable in India with advanced treatments like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy available at top cancer hospitals. The success rate depends on early detection and the stage of cancer at diagnosis.
