Lung Cancer Treatment cost in India
Lung cancer treatment costs in India can range from $5500 to $12500, which is equivalent to approximately 4,60,000 to 10,50,000 Indian rupees. Patients benefit from a multidisciplinary approach that includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and cutting-edge options like targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Specialized centers equipped with state-of-the-art technology provide minimally invasive procedures, including Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) and robotic surgery.
Cost Range of Lung Cancer Treatment cost in India
Cost Inclusions
Recommended treatment as per the stage of cancer
Hospitalization as per package
Doctor's fee and consultation
Pre-op investigations and clearance
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Who is a candidate for lung cancer treatment in India?
A candidate for lung cancer treatment depends on several factors, including the type and stage of lung cancer, overall health, and treatment goals. Below is a detailed description of candidates for lung cancer treatment under different categories:
Type of Lung Cancer
- Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): Candidates include those diagnosed with early, locally advanced, or metastatic NSCLC. Treatment options vary based on the stage, ranging from surgery and radiation to targeted therapies and immunotherapy.
- Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): Patients with SCLC, often diagnosed at an advanced stage, are typically treated with chemotherapy and radiation. Some may be candidates for surgery if caught early.
Stage of Lung Cancer
- Early-Stage (Stage I & II): Candidates for curative treatments like surgery (e.g., lobectomy, segmentectomy) and/or radiation therapy. Minimally invasive techniques, such as VATS or robotic surgery, may be offered.
- Locally Advanced (Stage III): Treatment typically involves a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and sometimes surgery. Candidates might benefit from concurrent chemoradiation or immunotherapy.
- Advanced/Metastatic (Stage IV): Candidates for systemic therapies, such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. Treatment aims to control the disease and prolong life rather than cure.
Overall Health and Functional Status
- Good Performance Status: Patients with good overall health and few comorbidities are candidates for aggressive treatment options, including surgery and combination therapies.
- Poor Performance Status: Those with significant comorbidities or reduced functional status may be limited to less intensive treatments, focusing on symptom management and quality of life, such as palliative care or single-modality treatments like radiation.
- Molecular and Genetic Markers
- Targeted Therapy Candidates: Patients with specific genetic mutations (e.g., EGFR, ALK, ROS1) are candidates for targeted therapies, which offer a personalized approach and are often used in advanced NSCLC.
- Immunotherapy Candidates: Patients whose tumors express high levels of PD-L1 protein may benefit from immunotherapy, either alone or in combination with other treatments.
Age Considerations
- Younger Patients: Often candidates for aggressive, curative treatments, including surgery and multimodal therapies, depending on the cancer stage and overall health.
- Elderly Patients: While age alone is not a limiting factor, treatment choices are tailored based on overall health and the ability to tolerate surgery or intensive therapies.
Treatment Goals
- Curative Intent: Patients with early-stage or localized lung cancer are candidates for treatments aimed at curing the disease.
- Palliative Intent: Candidates for palliative care are those with advanced or metastatic disease, where treatment focuses on symptom relief, maintaining quality of life, and extending survival.
Types of Lung Cancer Treatment Cost
Types of Lung Cancer Treatment in India | Cost Range in USD |
Lung Resection It involves the removal of the tumor and a portion of healthy lung tissue through procedures like Lobectomy / Segmentectomy / Pneumectomy / Wedge Resection / Sleeve Resection. | 6500 - 10500 |
Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS)A minimally invasive surgery using small incisions and a camera, often for early-stage lung cancer. | 9500 - 12500 |
Robot-Assisted Thoracic Surgery A minimally invasive surgery using robotic systems for more precision, often used for complex lung cancer surgeries. | 10500 - 14500 |
Chemotherapy It uses drugs administered orally or intravenously to kill cancer cells throughout the body. | 800 - 1200 per cycle |
Targeted TherapyIt involves drugs that specifically target certain mutations in lung cancer cells. | 800 - 1000 per month |
ImmunotherapyIt enhances the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. | 10000 - 12000 first cycle 2500 - 3500 afterward |
Radiation TherapyIt uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. | 5000 - 6000 |
Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT)A precise, high-dose radiation treatment for small lung tumors. | 5500 - 6500 |
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Lung Cancer Treatment Cost in India Inclusions
First consultation
Treatment as advised (Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy etc.)
Routine drugs and consumables required during hospitalization
Pre-anesthesia check up and clearance
Hospital stay and meals as per the package (in case of surgery)
Lung Cancer Treatment Cost in India Exclusions
Pre-operative examination and tests related to staging of cancer
Hotel stay, meals and flights
Extended hospital stay
Post-operative follow-ups and medical management
Post-operative dressing and nurse visits
Treatment for any other underlying medical conditions
Any complex investigations or drugs
Other Factors Affecting Lung Cancer Treatment Cost in India
Type, size and location of the tumor
Stage and grade of cancer
Choice of location, doctor and hospital
Pre-existing medical history
Type and duration of treatment advised
Diagnostic Tests for Lung Cancer Treatment
Types of Tests For Lung Cancer Treatment in India | Cost Range in USD |
Blood tests These include the basic blood investigations for the patient to check organ functioning, infection status and tumor markers | 50 to 80 |
Radiological Assessment (CT/MRI/Chest X-ray) Provides detailed images of the lung to determine the size, location, and extent of the tumor. | 100 to 200 |
Pulmonary Function Test / SpirometryMeasures lung function to evaluate how well the lungs are working and assess suitability for surgery. | 400 - 500 |
Histopathology Examination This includes biopsy of the tissue taken from the tumor site. It can be taken through bronchoscopy or needle / thoracic biopsy could also be conducted. | 150 to 250 |
Full Body PET Scan This includes a full body PET FDG scan to check for an metastasis and establish the stage of the cancer. | 300 to 500 |
Why is India preferred as one of the best countries for lung cancer treatment?
India is increasingly recognized as a leading destination for lung cancer treatment due to its advanced medical infrastructure, skilled professionals, and cost-effective care. The country boasts numerous top-tier hospitals and cancer centers equipped with cutting-edge technology, such as advanced imaging systems, robotic surgery tools, and targeted therapy options. Notably, India is home to several renowned institutions, including Nanavati-MAX Hospital in Mumbai and Fortis Memorial Research Institute in Delhi, which are internationally recognized for their expertise in oncology.
One of the key factors contributing to India’s appeal is the significant cost advantage. Treatment in India is often a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries, without compromising on quality. For instance, comprehensive lung cancer treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, can be 30-70% less expensive in India than in the United States or Europe. This affordability extends to high-end procedures and therapies, making advanced care accessible to a broader range of patients.
India’s medical tourism industry is booming, with approximately 500,000 international patients visiting the country annually for various treatments, including cancer care. The country’s highly skilled oncologists, many of whom are trained internationally and have extensive experience, contribute to high success rates in cancer management. For example, surgeons in India frequently perform complex procedures such as robotic lung surgeries and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) with impressive outcomes.
Cost Comparison for Lung Cancer Treatment Price in India with Other Countries
Country | Cost in USD |
India | $6000 to $14500 |
Turkey | $15000 to $45000 |
UAE | $40000 to $110,000 |
USA | $250,000 to $4,50,000 |