Proton Therapy- Cost In India, Benefits, Survival Rate & More

In cutting-edge medical advancements, proton therapy stands out as a revolutionary approach to cancer treatment. This blog aims to delve into everything you need about proton therapy and its associated costs in India. Proton therapy represents a paradigm shift in cancer treatment, utilizing protons, positively charged particles, to precisely target cancer cells while causing less damage to surrounding healthy tissues. This unique characteristic makes it particularly beneficial for treating tumors near critical organs or in pediatric cases.

Proton therapy’s efficacy lies in harnessing the precision of proton beams, which can be precisely controlled to deposit energy at the tumor site with minimal impact on the surrounding tissues. This stands in contrast to traditional radiation therapies, where X-rays deliver energy along their entire path, affecting both the tumor and adjacent healthy tissues. This precision significantly reduces the risk of side effects and long-term damage, enhancing the quality of life for patients undergoing treatment.

Now, focusing on the financial aspect, understanding the cost of proton therapy in India is essential for individuals navigating the complexities of healthcare expenses. The cost of proton therapy can vary based on several factors, including the type and location of the cancer, the number of treatment sessions required, and the specific technology and facilities utilized. 

In conclusion, this blog aims to unravel the mysteries surrounding proton therapy, shedding light on its innovative approach to cancer treatment and the associated costs within the Indian healthcare landscape. As we journey through the nuances of this transformative therapy, we hope to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

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Proton Therapy Cost In India

The cost of proton therapy in India varies depending on several factors, such as the type and location of the tumor, the number of sessions required, the hospital charges, the doctor’s fees, and the additional expenses. However, on average, the cost of proton therapy in India ranges from INR 25,00,000 to INR 30,00,000 (USD 33,000 to 39,000) for the complete course of treatment.

This is much lower than the cost of proton therapy in other countries, such as the US, where it can cost up to USD 200,000. India is one of the few countries that offer affordable and accessible proton therapy to patients from all over the world.

Factors Affecting The Proton Therapy Cost In India

Proton therapy is considered a more precise and less harmful form of radiation therapy compared to traditional external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). However, the cost of proton therapy can differ depending on several factors, including the location of the treatment center, the complexity of the case, and the availability of insurance coverage. Here are some factors that may affect the cost of proton therapy in India:

• Location: The cost of proton therapy can alter based on the location of the treatment center. Treatment centers in urban areas tend to be more costly than those in rural areas due to higher demand and better infrastructure.

• Complexity of the case: The complexity of the case can also impact the cost of proton therapy. More complex cases requiring longer treatment sessions or additional procedures may cost more.

• Availability of insurance coverage: Insurance coverage can significantly impact the cost of proton therapy. Patients with insurance coverage may experience lower out-of-pocket costs than those without insurance. However, the extent of coverage and the specifics of the policy may vary depending on the insurance provider.

• Treatment duration: The length of treatment required can also impact the cost of proton therapy. Longer treatment sessions may require more resources and time, resulting in higher prices.

• Type of cancer being treated: The type of cancer can also influence the cost of proton therapy. Some kinds of cancer, like brain tumors, may require more intensive and expensive treatment compared to other types of cancer.

• Patient age and health status: The age and health status of the patient can also impact the cost of proton therapy. Older patients or those with underlying health ailments may require more extensive pre-treatment evaluation and testing, leading to higher costs.

To summarize, the cost of proton therapy in India can vary depending on several factors, including location, case complexity, availability of insurance coverage, treatment duration, type of cancer being treated, and patient age and health status. Patients need to discuss these factors with their medical providers to determine the most appropriate course of treatment and to understand the associated costs.

Pre- & Post-treatment Costs For Proton Therapy In India

A rough estimate of the total costs for proton therapy in India may be as follows:

– Pre-treatment costs: Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 2 lakh

– Proton therapy sessions: Rs. 15 lakh to Rs. 25 lakh

– Post-treatment costs: Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 5 lakh

– Total costs: Rs. 16 lakh to Rs. 32 lakh

What Is Proton Therapy?

Proton therapy is a kind of radiation therapy used in the treatment of cancer. Unlike traditional forms of radiation therapy that use X-rays (photons) to target and destroy cancer cells, proton therapy utilizes protons, which are positively charged particles.

The key advantage of proton therapy lies in its ability to deliver radiation with greater precision, allowing for better targeting of tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Protons have a unique property called the Bragg peak, which refers to the concentration of radiation at a specific depth within the body. This characteristic enables proton therapy to release most of its energy precisely at the tumor site, with a minimal dose of radiation delivered to the tissues before and beyond the tumor.

How Proton Beam Therapy Works?

The process of proton therapy typically involves the following steps:

1. Simulation and Treatment Planning: Before treatment begins, the patient undergoes a simulation process to determine the exact position and shape of the tumor. This information is used to create a treatment plan that specifies the appropriate dose and angles for delivering proton beams.

2. Treatment Delivery: Proton therapy is delivered in sessions, known as fractions, over several days or weeks. During each session, the patient lies on a treatment table, and a machine called a cyclotron or synchrotron accelerates protons to high speeds. These accelerated protons are then directed precisely at the tumor.

3. Monitoring and Adjustments: Medical professionals closely monitor the patient throughout the treatment to ensure accuracy and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Proton therapy is often considered for certain types of cancers, especially those located near critical structures or in pediatric cases where minimizing radiation exposure to healthy tissues is crucial. However, it is not suitable for all types of cancer, and the decision to use proton therapy is made on a case-by-case basis.

While proton therapy offers advantages in terms of precision and reduced damage to surrounding tissues, it is a complex and expensive form of treatment. Availability is limited and may not be widely accessible in all regions. 

What Is Proton Therapy Used For?

Proton therapy can be used to treat various types of diseases, such as:

– Head and neck cancers: These include cancers of the mouth, throat, nose, sinuses, salivary glands, and skull base. Proton therapy can target these tumors precisely and avoid damaging the eyes, brain, spinal cord, and other vital structures. The cost of proton therapy for head and neck cancers in India ranges from INR 25,00,000 to INR 30,00,000 (USD 33,000 to 39,000).

– Pediatric cancers: These include cancers that affect children and adolescents, such as brain tumors, sarcomas, neuroblastomas, retinoblastomas, and Wilms’ tumors. Proton therapy can limit the exposure of radiation to the developing organs and tissues of children and lower the risk of secondary cancers later in life. The cost of proton therapy for pediatric cancers in India is similar to that of head and neck cancers.

– Benign brain tumors: These are non-cancerous growths in the brain that can cause symptoms like headaches, seizures, vision problems, and hormonal imbalances. Proton therapy can treat benign brain tumors such as meningiomas, pituitary adenomas, acoustic neuromas, and craniopharyngiomas. The cost of proton therapy for benign brain tumors in India is also comparable to that of head and neck cancers.

– Prostate cancer: This is one of the common cancer types that affects the prostate gland in men. Proton therapy can deliver high doses of radiation to the prostate while minimizing the damage to the bladder, rectum, and other nearby organs. This can reduce the risk of urinary and bowel complications and preserve sexual function. The price of proton therapy for prostate cancer in India is not available, but it may be lower than that for head and neck cancers.

– Breast cancer: This is a common cancer that affects the breast tissue in women. Proton therapy can treat breast cancer that has not spread to other body parts or that has recurred after previous treatments. Proton therapy can also be utilized to treat breast cancer that has moved to the chest wall or lymph nodes. Proton therapy can lower the exposure of radiation to the heart, lungs, ribs, and skin. The cost of proton therapy for breast cancer in India is not available, but it may be higher than that for head and neck cancers.

Benefits Of Proton Therapy

It is a kind of radiation therapy that uses protons rather than traditional X-rays to treat cancer. Here are some potential benefits of proton therapy:

1. Precision and Targeting:

   – Proton therapy allows for highly precise targeting of tumors. Protons can be controlled to release maximum energy at the tumor site, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues and organs. This precision is particularly beneficial for treating tumors located near critical structures.

2. Reduced Radiation Exposure to Healthy Tissues:

   – Proton therapy reduces the radiation dose that healthy tissues and organs receive compared to traditional radiation therapy. This can be especially advantageous in pediatric cancer treatment, where minimizing radiation exposure to developing tissues is crucial.

3. Lower Risk of Secondary Cancers:

   – The lower exit dose of protons means less radiation exposure to healthy tissues beyond the tumor site. This may reduce the risk of developing secondary cancers later in life, which can be a concern with traditional radiation therapies.

4. Improved Quality of Life:

   – The reduced impact on healthy tissues can lead to fewer side effects and a better quality of life during and after treatment. Patients may experience less damage to surrounding organs, causing fewer complications and a faster recovery.

5. Effective for Certain Tumor Types:

   – Proton therapy is particularly effective for treating certain types of tumors, such as those in the brain, spine, head and neck, prostate, and pediatric cancers. The ability to deliver high radiation to the tumor while sparing nearby critical structures makes it a valuable option for specific cases.

6. Treatment for Previously Irradiated Areas:

   – Proton therapy may be a choice for patients who have already received radiation treatment in a specific area. The precise targeting of protons allows for additional treatment while minimizing the risk of further damage to previously irradiated tissues.

7. Reduced Treatment-Related Toxicity:

   – Because proton therapy is more precise in delivering radiation to the tumor, there is often a lower incidence of side effects and toxicity compared to traditional radiation therapies. This can lead to a more comfortable medical treatment experience for cancer patients.

8. Shorter Treatment Courses:

   – In some cases, proton therapy may allow shorter treatment courses than traditional radiation therapy. This can be more convenient for patients and may improve treatment adherence.

It’s important to note that while proton therapy offers several advantages, it may not be suitable for all types of cancers, and its availability can be limited. The decision to use proton therapy should be made in consultation with a healthcare team based on the specific characteristics of the tumor and the individual patient’s situation.

What To Expect Before, During & After Proton Therapy?

Proton therapy utilizes protons, which are positively charged particles, to target and destroy cancer cells. Here’s an overview of what to expect before, during, and after proton therapy:

Before Proton Therapy:

1. Consultation and Evaluation:

   – You will have a consultation with your oncologist and radiation oncologist to discuss your medical history, diagnosis, and treatment options.

   – Various diagnostic tests, such as CT scans, MRI, and PET scans, may be conducted to precisely locate the tumor and plan the treatment.

2. Treatment Planning:

   – A team of medical professionals, including radiation oncologists and medical physicists, will work together to create a personalized treatment plan.

   – The treatment plan outlines the number of sessions, dosage, and the precise angles at which the proton beams will be directed.

3. Simulation:

   – A simulation session may help you get accustomed to the treatment process. This involves lying in the same position you will be in during treatment while scans are taken to refine the treatment plan.

During Proton Therapy:

1. Treatment Sessions:

   – Proton therapy is typically administered on an outpatient basis.

   – The actual treatment sessions are relatively short, usually lasting a few minutes, but the entire process, including setup and imaging, may take about 30 minutes to an hour.

2. Comfort Measures:

   – You will be positioned carefully to ensure the proton beams target the cancer cells accurately.

   – You may be provided with immobilization devices or masks to help you maintain the same position during each treatment.

After Proton Therapy:

1. Side Effects:

   – The side effects of proton therapy can differ depending on the kind and location of the cancer being treated. Some side effects may include fatigue, skin irritation, & changes in appetite.

   – The side effects are often less severe than those of traditional radiation therapy, as proton therapy minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

2. Follow-up Appointments:

   – After completing the treatment course, you will have regular follow-up appointments with your oncologist to evaluate your progress & assess potential long-term side effects.

3. Recovery and Resumption of Normal Activities:

   – Most people can resume normal activities relatively quickly after proton therapy. However, the recovery period can vary, and your healthcare team will provide guidance based on your specific situation.

4. Monitoring and Surveillance:

   – Your medical team will continue to observe your health through regular check-ups, imaging, and other necessary tests to ensure that there is no recurrence of cancer.

It’s crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare team about any concerns or side effects you may experience during or after proton therapy. They can provide guidance and support to help manage your well-being throughout the treatment process.

How Long Do Proton Therapy Treatments Take?

The duration of proton therapy varies from patient to patient but typically ranges from 4 to 8 weeks. Each treatment session lasts about 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the complexity of the treatment plan. However, the actual time that the protons are delivered to the tumor is only a few minutes. The rest of the time is spent on positioning you on the treatment table, adjusting the equipment, and verifying the accuracy of the treatment.

Proton therapy is usually given five days a week, Monday through Friday. Depending on your schedule and availability, you may have a break on weekends or holidays. You will have frequent check-ups with your doctor and other members of your care team throughout the course of your treatment. They will monitor your progress, evaluate your response to the therapy, and adjust your treatment plan if needed.

Proton therapy is a painless and non-invasive procedure. You will not feel anything during the treatment except for a slight warmth or tingling sensation in the treated area. You will be awake & alert throughout the session and can communicate with your therapist through an intercom system.

Success Rate Of Proton Therapy In India

The success rate of proton therapy depends on many factors, such as the type and stage of cancer, the location and size of the tumor, the patient’s overall health and response to treatment, and the quality of care. However, some studies have shown that proton therapy can achieve similar or better outcomes than conventional radiation therapy for certain cancers.

For example, a study published in 2020 compared proton therapy with conventional radiation therapy for patients with NSCLC- non-small cell lung cancer, which is the most standard kind of lung cancer. The study found that 46% of proton treatment patients and 49% of standard radiation therapy patients were cancer-free after three years. After three years, 56% of individuals who underwent proton therapy & 58% of those who received conventional radiation were still alive.

Another study published in 2019 compared proton therapy with conventional radiation therapy for patients with prostate cancer, which is one of the most common cancers in men. The study found that 93.5% of proton treatment patients and 88.8% of standard radiation therapy patients had no signs of cancer recurrence after five years. The study also found that proton therapy patients had fewer side effects and better quality of life than conventional radiation therapy patients.

Where Can You Get Proton Therapy In India?

India is one of the few countries in the world that offers proton therapy to cancer patients. Currently, there are two operational proton therapy centers in India:

– Apollo Proton Cancer Centre (APCC) in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It is the first and largest proton therapy center in South Asia and the Middle East. It was launched in January 2019 by Apollo Hospitals, a leading healthcare group in India. APCC has treated over 1,000 cancer patients from over 33 countries in the last four years. APCC has also launched the first and largest Helical Tomotherapy program in Tamil Nadu, which provides greater precision & control over radiation therapy delivery.

– Tata Memorial Centre (TMC) in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is the first government hospital to offer proton therapy in India. It started offering proton therapy in May 2023. TMC is one of India’s leading cancer hospitals and research institutes. It is part of the Department of Atomic Energy and receives funding from the central government.

Both APCC and TMC use advanced proton therapy systems manufactured by Ion Beam Applications SA (IBA), a Belgium-based company leading in proton therapy technology.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Proton Therapy emerged as a revolutionary and precise treatment option for various cancers in India. Its ability to target tumors with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissues sets it apart from traditional radiation therapies. The cost factor, while initially perceived as a potential barrier, is becoming more accessible, thanks to the increasing number of facilities offering this advanced treatment. 

Patients now have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge technology that promises effective cancer treatment and aims to enhance overall quality of life during and after therapy. As the medical landscape in India evolves, Proton Therapy stands as a beacon of hope for those seeking an innovative and tailored approach to cancer care.

Cancer does not discriminate, but financial barriers can limit treatment options. Crowdfunding democratizes access to proton therapy by allowing individuals from all walks of life to contribute, no matter how big or small.