Table of Content
Introduction
Cancer occurs when some of the body’s cells begin to grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. This uncontrolled cell growth disrupts the normal functioning of tissues and organs, leading to various health complications.
To diagnose cancer, doctors use advanced imaging and diagnostic procedures, including CT scans, MRI scans, bone scans, biopsy tests, and PET scans, which help identify the extent and location of cancer.
The cost of treating blood cancer in India varies based on the type and stage of cancer, but on average, it is approximately ₹12,00,000 ($14,400). This cost includes diagnostic tests, chemotherapy, radiation therapy (if required), and supportive care.
- Chemotherapy: This is the most commonly used treatment for blood cancer. It works by killing cancer cells or stopping their growth.
- Radiation Therapy: In some specific cases, radiation therapy is used, especially when the cancer is localized or resistant to other treatments.
After chemo-radiation therapy destroys the cancerous cells, patients often undergo a bone marrow transplant. This procedure replenishes the body with healthy stem cells that can grow into new blood cells, replacing those lost during treatment.
With advancements in medical care and technology, India has become a leading destination for high-quality and affordable cancer treatment. Early diagnosis and timely intervention can significantly improve survival rates and outcomes for cancer patients.
Treatment Cost
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia
₹7,00,000 – ₹15,00,000 ($8,500 to $18,000) - Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
₹8,00,000 – ₹18,00,000 ($9,600 to $21,500) - Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
₹6,00,000 – ₹14,00,000 ($7,200 to $16,800) - Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
₹5,00,000 – ₹12,00,000 ($6,000 to $14,400) - Bone Marrow Transplant
₹15,00,000 – ₹35,00,000 ($18,000 to $42,000) - Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
₹6,00,000 – ₹15,00,000 ($7,200 to $18,000) - Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
₹7,00,000 – ₹18,00,000 ($8,500 to $21,500) - Multiple Myeloma
₹10,00,000 – ₹30,00,000 ($12,000 to $36,000)
Cost in Top Cities
| Cities | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹3,75,000 | ₹12,00,000 | ₹24,00,000 |
| Ahmedabad | ₹3,25,000 | ₹11,50,000 | ₹22,00,000 |
| Bengaluru | ₹3,50,000 | ₹12,50,000 | ₹25,00,000 |
| Mumbai | ₹3,75,000 | ₹13,50,000 | ₹27,00,000 |
| Pune | ₹3,25,000 | ₹11,00,000 | ₹22,00,000 |
| Chennai | ₹3,00,000 | ₹10,50,000 | ₹21,00,000 |
| Hyderabad | ₹3,00,000 | ₹10,00,000 | ₹20,00,000 |
| Kolkata | ₹2,75,000 | ₹9,50,000 | ₹19,00,000 |
More Information
The total cost for blood cancer treatment in India varies widely, ranging from approximately INR 37,931 (USD 475) to INR 21,98,980 (USD 27,537), with the average cost being around INR 10,93,461 (USD 13,693).
The cost depends on several factors, including the cancer stage, the patient’s age, the type of treatment recommended, and the hospital’s location. For instance, blood cancer treatment in Mumbai can range from INR 44,000 (USD 567) to INR 22,00,000 (USD 28,363). On the other hand, the cost in Delhi starts from approximately INR 40,000 (USD 515). These figures should be treated as estimates and can vary based on the specific treatment plan the oncologist recommends.
Types of blood cancers treated in India and their cost
In India, blood cancer is mainly classified into three types: leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Each of these types can be treated with various therapies, and their treatment costs can vary depending on factors like the hospital, the stage of the disease, and the recommended treatment plan.
1. LEUKEMIA
| Types of Leukemia | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) | This type of leukemia occurs when there is cancer in the blood cells’ myeloid line. | INR 13,50,000 – INR 20,00,000 USD 16,000 – USD 24,000 |
| Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) | CML happens when myeloid cells in the bone marrow grow uncontrollably, spilling into the bloodstream. | INR 18,00,000 – INR 24,00,000 USD 22,000 – USD 29,000 |
| Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) | This condition involves a large number of immature lymphocytes (white blood cells) developing in the lymphoid line of blood cells. | INR 12,00,000 – INR 18,00,000 USD 14,400 – USD 21,600 |
| Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) | In this type, the bone marrow accumulates too many lymphocytes. | INR 8,00,000 – INR 15,00,000 USD 9,600 – USD 18,000 |
| Bone Marrow Transplant | This procedure is used to treat various types of blood cancer. | INR 14,00,000 – INR 28,00,000 USD 16,800 – USD 33,600 |
2. LYMPHOMA
Below are the types of lymphoma, a brief description of each, and the estimated cost of lymphoma treatment in India:
| Types of Lymphoma | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Hodgkin’s Lymphoma | A type of cancer affecting the lymphatic system, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells. | INR 14,50,000 to INR 20,00,000 USD 17,500–24,000 |
| Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma | This condition involves an abnormal increase in lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. | INR 18,00,000 to INR 25,00,000 USD 21,500–30,000 |
| Bone Marrow Transplant | Often used to treat advanced cases of lymphoma, this procedure replaces damaged or destroyed bone marrow with healthy cells. | INR 15,00,000 to INR 30,00,000 USD 18,000–36,000 |
3. MYELOMA
| Type of Myeloma | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Multiple Myeloma | Plasma cells produce antibodies to fight infections. If they multiply abnormally, it leads to multiple myeloma. This is a cancer of plasma cells, which are a type of white blood cell. The condition is treated with a combination of chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and sometimes bone marrow transplants. | INR 12,00,000 – INR 18,00,000 USD 14,400 – USD 21,600 |
Best Blood Cancer Treatments in India
Patients worldwide come to India for effective and affordable blood cancer treatments. Below are some of the best treatment options available:
A. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for blood cancer, especially when surgery is not an option. It works by destroying cancer cells in the bloodstream. However, healthy cells can also be affected during the process.
To address this issue, chemotherapy is often combined with other therapies, such as bone marrow transplants, to restore healthy cells in the body. Cost of Chemotherapy in India: INR 20,000 to INR 30,000 per session (USD 250–375).
B. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy involves total body irradiation, which is necessary for patients requiring a Haploidentical Bone Marrow Transplant. This therapy ensures the body is completely free of cancer cells before the transplant. Cost of Radiation Therapy in India: INR 12,00,000 to INR 14,00,000 (USD 15,000–17,500).
C. Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT)
A Bone Marrow Transplant is a crucial treatment for many blood cancers. The cost depends on the type of transplant recommended:
- Autologous BMT: Stem cells are extracted from the patient before chemotherapy and restored afterward. This process is less expensive as it does not require a donor. Cost: INR 11,00,000 to INR 13,00,000 (USD 14,000–16,000).
- Allogeneic BMT: Stem cells are taken from a donor with a 10/10 HLA match, often a sibling. This process is more expensive due to donor involvement. Cost: INR 14,00,000 to INR 18,00,000 (USD 17,500–23,000).
D. Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy is used alongside chemotherapy to focus on specific cancer-promoting cells in the body. This therapy ensures precision and minimizes damage to healthy cells.
Additional Notes
Bone Marrow Transplants are especially effective for leukemia patients to rebuild healthy bone marrow. Before undergoing a transplant, a patient must complete several preliminary procedures. The overall cost of blood cancer treatment in India depends on the type of transplant and therapy suggested by your doctor.
India offers world-class care for blood cancer at significantly lower costs compared to many other countries, making it a preferred destination for patients seeking quality and affordability.
Pre-Blood Cancer Treatment Tests and Detection Process
Before starting treatment for blood cancer, a series of diagnostic tests are required to confirm the condition and decide on a treatment plan. These tests are essential for understanding the severity and specific types of blood cancer. Below is a detailed overview:
1. Investigations
The first step involves undergoing various blood tests. These are usually sufficient to diagnose blood cancer in about 80% of cases. However, for a thorough evaluation, additional procedures such as a bone marrow biopsy and imaging tests are often needed.
- Bone Marrow Biopsy: In this procedure, a small tissue sample is taken from your bone marrow (usually from the hip bone). This sample is examined under a microscope to check for abnormal blood cells, which helps determine the type and stage of blood cancer.
- Imaging Tests for Lymphomas: Lymphomas are typically identified using advanced imaging techniques like CT scans, MRI scans, X-rays, and PET scans. These tests help locate the affected areas and check for the spread of cancer.
- Cost: In India, imaging tests are significantly more affordable than in countries like the USA, UK, or Singapore. The combined cost for PET scans, MRI tests, and X-rays ranges between INR 50,000–65,000 (USD 620–800).
2. HLA Typing (if Required)
For patients needing a bone marrow transplant, HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) typing is crucial. This test determines whether the donor’s HLA markers are compatible with the patient.
- What Are HLA Markers? – HLA markers are proteins found on the surface of most cells in your body. These markers help your immune system differentiate between your cells and foreign cells. A close HLA match between the donor and recipient is vital for the success of a bone marrow transplant.
- Cost: The cost of HLA typing in India is approximately INR 42,000–50,000 (USD 540–650), making it affordable compared to international standards.
3. Donor Fees
In the case of an allogeneic bone marrow transplant (where the stem cells are taken from a donor), additional expenses are incurred for donor-related procedures. These include the cost of extracting stem cells and other donor-associated medical processes.
- For Haploidentical Transplants (partially matched donors), the costs are generally higher due to the complexity of the procedure and additional compatibility tests.
- Donor Extraction Cost: Typically ranges from INR 1,00,000–1,50,000 (USD 1,250–1,900), depending on the donor and facility.
Why Choose India for Pre-Treatment Tests?
India offers world-class medical diagnostics at a fraction of the cost charged in Western countries. With state-of-the-art facilities and expert oncologists, patients from all over the world choose India for reliable and affordable pre-treatment tests.
By ensuring accurate and cost-effective diagnosis, Indian healthcare providers pave the way for successful blood cancer treatment, giving patients a better chance at recovery.
What is the cost of treatment of blood cancer in India vs. other countries?
| Treatment / Countries | Leukemia (₹ / $) | Lymphoma (₹ / $) | Myeloma (₹ / $) |
|---|---|---|---|
| India | ₹8,50,000 – ₹18,00,000 ($10,500 – $22,300) | ₹13,50,000 – ₹19,50,000 ($16,700 – $24,200) | ₹9,75,000 – ₹12,00,000 ($12,000 – $14,800) |
| Singapore | ₹9,00,000 – ₹25,00,000 ($11,000 – $30,500) | ₹23,00,000 – ₹29,00,000 ($28,000 – $35,200) | ₹18,00,000 – ₹27,50,000 ($22,000 – $33,500) |
| UK | ₹16,50,000 – ₹26,40,000 ($20,200 – $32,400) | ₹49,50,000 – ₹56,00,000 ($60,500 – $68,500) | ₹54,00,000 – ₹1,29,00,000 ($66,000 – $157,600) |
| USA | ₹16,50,000 – ₹33,00,000 ($20,200 – $40,500) | ₹61,50,000 – ₹69,50,000 ($75,000 – $85,500) | ₹82,00,000 – ₹1,23,00,000 ($100,000 – $150,000) |
Notes: Costs vary based on the type of cancer, hospital facilities, and treatment protocol. India remains the most affordable country for blood cancer treatment, with excellent medical infrastructure and expertise at lower costs compared to Western nations.
Other Details
Why Do People Choose India for Blood Cancer Treatment?
India has become a leading destination for medical tourism, particularly for blood cancer treatment, thanks to its combination of advanced medical infrastructure, affordable costs, and highly skilled specialists. Here’s why patients from around the world prefer India:
1. Advanced Medical Technology
India’s best blood cancer hospitals are equipped with the latest technologies and treatment protocols, such as targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and cutting-edge diagnostic tools. These hospitals ensure that patients receive the same level of care offered in renowned medical centers globally.
2. Expertise in Blood Cancer Specialists
Hematologist-oncologists in India are internationally trained and highly experienced in diagnosing and treating blood cancer. Many specialists actively participate in global cancer research, ensuring patients benefit from the most recent advancements in care.
3. Affordable Treatment Costs
One of the biggest advantages of choosing India is affordability. Blood cancer treatment in India can cost up to 70-80% less compared to Western countries. For example, while treatment in the U.S. can cost $75,000 to $150,000, the same procedures in India are available for $10,000 to $30,000 (₹8,00,000 – ₹24,00,000).
4. Comprehensive Patient Care
Top hospitals in India focus not only on treating the disease but also on providing holistic care, including counseling, follow-ups, and rehabilitation programs.
5. Positive Endorsements from Global Experts
Renowned oncologists have highlighted that India’s medical facilities match global standards. Dr. R. Bidwe, former director of Tata Memorial Centre, once remarked that India provides treatments comparable to the best centers in the world, making it a viable option for international patients.
6. Cost Savings Beyond Treatment
In addition to lower medical costs, patients save on consultation fees, hospital stay charges, and even post-treatment care. For example, while consultations abroad may start at $10,000 (approximately ₹8,20,000), in India, the same services are available for a fraction of that cost.
For those seeking effective, world-class treatment for blood cancer without financial strain, India offers the perfect combination of quality and affordability. Patients not only receive top-notch medical care but also save significantly compared to treatment costs in countries like the USA, UK, or Singapore. Choosing India means accessing premium care with experienced professionals at a much lower cost.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the three types of cancer that affect the blood?
The three primary types of blood cancer are:
- Leukemia: This cancer originates in the bone marrow and leads to the uncontrolled production of abnormal white blood cells.
- Lymphoma: Affects the lymphatic system, which is a crucial part of the immune system. Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma are the two main types.
- Myeloma: This type of blood cancer affects plasma cells, which are responsible for producing antibodies.
What effect will blood cancer treatment have on my overall quality of life?
Blood cancer treatment can improve overall quality of life by targeting and controlling the disease, but it can also cause side effects that temporarily affect physical and emotional well-being. Common effects include fatigue, hair loss, infections, and emotional stress. Post-treatment, many patients lead normal and healthy lives with regular follow-ups and care. Advanced treatment options like targeted therapies now minimize side effects and improve outcomes.
Is blood cancer a hereditary disease?
Blood cancer is generally not hereditary. However, in rare cases, certain genetic mutations or conditions may increase the risk of developing it. For instance, conditions like Fanconi anemia or genetic mutations such as BRCA2 can elevate the risk of blood cancer. Still, most cases are due to acquired genetic changes during a person’s lifetime, not inherited ones.
Is it possible to cure blood cancer completely?
Yes, blood cancer can be completely cured in many cases, especially if detected and treated early. The success of the treatment depends on factors like the type of blood cancer, the stage at which it is diagnosed, and the patient’s age and overall health. Bone marrow transplants, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy have significantly improved cure rates for certain blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma.
Is it possible to die of blood cancer?
Yes, blood cancer can be fatal if not treated in time or if it progresses to an advanced stage. However, early diagnosis and effective treatment greatly reduce the risk of death. With advancements in therapies and drugs, survival rates for blood cancer patients have improved significantly over the years.
What is the blood cancer survival rate in India?
The survival rate for blood cancer in India varies depending on the type of cancer and treatment access. On average:
- Leukemia: Survival rates range between 60-70% for children and 50-60% for adults with timely treatment.
- Lymphoma: Hodgkin’s lymphoma has a survival rate of over 80% with treatment, while non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma ranges from 50-70%, depending on the subtype.
- Myeloma: The survival rate is approximately 50-60%.
Early diagnosis, availability of advanced treatments, and personalized care in India have led to these promising survival rates.