Table of Content
Introduction
The cost of breast cancer treatment in India can vary widely depending on factors like the stage of cancer, the hospital, and the treatments required. On average, the cost is around INR 7,00,000 ($8,700), which generally covers hospital admission, consultations, diagnostic tests, treatments, and follow-up care. The total cost can range from INR 90,000 ($1,100) to INR 17,00,000 ($21,000) depending on the complexity of the case and the treatment plan.
Breast cancer treatment in India is much more affordable compared to many developed countries, which makes it an attractive option for patients seeking quality care at lower costs. As a result, many people choose India for their cancer treatment due to the combination of affordability and comprehensive treatment options available.
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Treatment Cost
- Proton Therapy
₹23,240,000 – ₹27,390,000 - Lumpectomy
₹183,600 – ₹249,000 - Mastectomy
₹249,000 – ₹373,500 - Radiation Therapy
₹166,000 – ₹622,500 - Chemotherapy
₹191,900 – ₹332,000 per cycle - Targeted Therapy
₹99,600 – ₹415,000 per month - Immunotherapy
₹229,000 – ₹229,000 per month
Cost in Top Cities
| Cities | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹1,06,250 | ₹8,63,750 | ₹20,82,500 |
| Ahmedabad | ₹93,500 | ₹7,09,750 | ₹16,15,000 |
| Bengaluru | ₹1,10,500 | ₹8,07,500 | ₹18,70,000 |
| Mumbai | ₹1,14,750 | ₹9,18,000 | ₹21,67,500 |
| Pune | ₹97,750 | ₹7,65,000 | ₹17,85,000 |
| Chennai | ₹93,500 | ₹7,22,500 | ₹17,42,500 |
| Hyderabad | ₹85,000 | ₹6,80,000 | ₹16,57,500 |
| Kolkata | ₹80,750 | ₹6,63,000 | ₹15,47,000 |
More Information
What are the costs of different breast cancer treatment options in India?
India offers a wide range of affordable breast cancer treatments, making it an attractive option for many patients. Treatment costs depend on factors like the stage of cancer, the type of treatment, and the hospital’s facilities. Here are the costs for different treatments:
| Type of Therapy | Cost Range (INR) | Cost Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Chemotherapy: This is a common treatment for cancer, with costs depending on the number of sessions required. | ₹56,000 to ₹2,80,000 | $700 to $3,700 |
| Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. The total cost is for the full course of treatment. | ₹1,50,000 to ₹6,00,000 | $2,000 to $7,800 |
| Internal Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy): Involves placing radioactive material directly inside the body to target cancer cells. | ₹61,960 to ₹5,16,337 | $800 to $6,700 |
| External Radiation Therapy: Uses external machines to aim radiation at cancer cells, often for localized tumors.es external machines to aim radiation precisely at cancer cells, commonly used for treating localized tumors. | Around ₹1,00,000 | $1,300 |
| Targeted Therapy: Uses drugs to target specific proteins in cancer cells, especially effective for HER-2-positive breast cancer. | Around ₹85,400 | $1200 |
| Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer, often used for advanced cancer. For example, Atezolizumab (Tecentriq). | Varies widely | Varies widely |
| Hormone Therapy: Blocks hormones that help cancer grow, usually given after surgery to reduce the chance of recurrence. | Starting from ₹52,000 | Starting from $673 |
Note: Costs can fluctuate by 5% to 10% based on the specific condition. The treatment costs typically include hospital stays, surgeon’s fees, operation theater costs, anesthesia fees, and meals for the patient and one accompanying person.
What are the costs of different types of breast cancer surgeries in India?
Surgery is the main treatment for breast cancer, especially in the early stages. The type of surgery depends on how advanced the cancer is. In India, the cost of breast removal surgery (mastectomy) is usually around $4,000, though it can vary based on factors like the hospital and location. Tumor removal surgery (lumpectomy) typically costs between ₹1,56,300 and ₹2,13,800. Other factors, such as the hospital and treatment location, can also affect the price. For comparison, mastectomy surgery in the UK and the USA can cost between $8,000 and $13,000.
Here is a list of breast cancer surgery costs in India:
| Type of surgery | Cost Estimation |
|---|---|
| Lumpectomy | ₹1,56,000 ($2200) to ₹2,13,800 ($3000) |
| Partial Mastectomy | Around ₹ 2,12,700 ($3000) |
| Total Mastectomy or Simple Mastectomy | Around ₹ 2,83,600 ($4000) |
| Modified Radical Mastectomy | Around ₹ 2,62,400 ($3700) |
| Radical Mastectomy | Around ₹ 3,19,100 ($4500) |
Now that we’ve covered the different treatment options, let’s look at how the treatment and costs vary depending on the stage of breast cancer. The stage at which you are diagnosed is a key factor in deciding your treatment plan and the costs involved.
What are the costs of breast cancer treatment based on the stage in India?
Your oncologist will create a treatment plan based on the specific stage of your cancer. It’s important to know how the cost of treatment can change depending on the stage of breast cancer in India.
A. Cost of Stage 0 Breast cancer treatment
| Treatment Required | Treatment cost |
|---|---|
| Surgery (Lumpectomy) | ₹ 1,56,000 ($2200) – ₹ 2,13,800 ($3000) |
| Radiation Therapy | ₹ 2,13,000 – ₹ 3,54,500 ($3000 to $5000) |
B. Cost of Stage 1 Breast cancer treatment
| Treatment Required | Treatment cost |
|---|---|
| Surgery | Lumpectomy ₹1,56,000 ($2200) – ₹3,19,200 ($4500) Mastectomy ₹2,13,600($3000) to ₹3,20,388 ($4500) |
| Radiation Therapy | ₹ 2,13,000 ($3000) – ₹ 3,54,500 ($5000) |
| Chemotherapy | ₹ 57,000 ($800) to ₹ 2,84,800 ($4,000) per session |
C. Cost of Stage 2 Breast cancer treatment
| Treatment Required | Treatment cost |
|---|---|
| Surgery | Radical Mastectomy: ₹2,12,700 ($3000) Lumpectomy: ₹1,56,000 ($2200) |
| Radiation Therapy | ₹2,13,000 ($3000) – ₹3,54,500 ($5000) |
| Chemotherapy | ₹57,000 ($800) to ₹2,84,800 ($4,000) per session |
D. Cost of Stage 3 Breast cancer treatment
| Treatment Required | Treatment cost |
|---|---|
| Chemotherapy | ₹57,000 ($800) to ₹2,84,800 ($4,000) per session |
| Surgery (Mastectomy) | ₹2,12,700 ($3000) to ₹3,19,100 ($4500) |
| Radiation therapy | ₹2,13,000 ($3000) – ₹3,54,500 ($5000) |
E. Cost of Stage 4 Breast cancer treatment
| Treatment Required | Treatment cost |
|---|---|
| Chemotherapy | ₹57,000 ($800) to ₹2,84,800 ($4,000) per session |
| Immunotherapy – Atezolizumab (Tecentriq) | ₹1,98,000 ($2,759) |
| Radiation therapy | ₹2,13,000 ($3000) – ₹3,54,500 ($5000) |
Having covered all aspects of treatment, let’s now focus on the role of the hospital in breast cancer care.
We have provided a detailed cost comparison between treatment in private hospitals and government hospitals.
What are the treatment costs in private versus government hospitals?
Here’s a comparison of breast cancer treatment costs at private hospitals versus government hospitals in India:
In general, the cost of breast cancer surgery is lower for early-stage cancer. This is because only surgery to remove the tumor is needed at this stage. Many of the top breast cancer hospitals in India also use treatments like radiotherapy and chemotherapy as additional options for early-stage cancer, but these can increase the overall cost.
Treatment at private hospitals tends to be more expensive due to better facilities, advanced technology, and personalized care, while government hospitals offer more affordable treatment, though the facilities and waiting times may differ.
| Stages | Private Hospital | Private Hospital |
|---|---|---|
| Early Stage | ₹6,00,000 to ₹7,00,000 ($8,700 to $10,200) | ₹2,50,000 to ₹3,50,000 ($3,600 to $5,000) |
| Advance Stage | ₹13,00,000 to 14,00,000 ($19,000 to $20,400) | ₹6,00,000 to 7,00,000 ($8,700 to $10,200) |
What factors affect the cost of breast cancer treatment in India?
Several factors can influence the overall cost of breast cancer treatment in India. Here are the main ones:
- Stage of Cancer: The stage of cancer affects the complexity of treatment. Early-stage cancers generally have lower treatment costs because they may only require surgery, while later stages may need more treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, which increase the cost.
- Types of Treatments that are given: The treatment plan is decided by the oncologist. Each type of treatment (like surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, etc.) has its own cost. If more treatments are required, the total cost will be higher.
- Location of Treatment: The cost varies depending on where you choose to get treated. Private hospitals are more expensive than government hospitals. Also, hospitals in larger cities or areas with a higher cost of living tend to have higher treatment costs.
- Number of Sessions and Cycles: Some treatments, like chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and immunotherapy, are given in multiple cycles. The more cycles you need, the higher the overall cost of treatment.
- Medications Involved in Treatment: The drugs used in breast cancer treatment, including chemotherapy and targeted therapies, can be very expensive and add to the overall treatment cost.
- Equipment Used: The type of equipment used in your treatment can also affect the cost. For example, advanced surgeries like laparoscopic or robotic surgery, as well as high-dose chemotherapy, can raise the expenses due to the technology and medications involved.
Having discussed the key factors influencing breast cancer treatment costs in India, let’s now highlight the additional factors that can affect the overall expense.
What are the costs associated with pre-treatment and post-treatment care for breast cancer in India?
A. Pre-Treatment Costs for Breast Cancer:
Before starting treatment, your oncologist will recommend certain tests to assess your condition and determine the most suitable treatment plan. These tests will also contribute to the overall cost of your treatment.
- Mammogram: This is an X-ray image of the breast used to detect lumps or other potential signs of breast cancer. It can also be performed on women who have no symptoms to screen for early signs of the condition. Cost: ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 ($14.10 – $28.21)
- Breast Ultrasound: This test is used to check for lumps or other indications of breast cancer and can also be done to further examine the breast. It is typically used as a follow-up after an abnormal mammogram result. The procedure uses sound waves to create images of the internal structures of the breast. Cost: Around ₹1,500 ($21)
- Biopsy Report: This test involves extracting tissue from the breast, which is then examined under a microscope to confirm a breast cancer diagnosis. Cost: Around ₹13,000 ($183.04)
- PET Scan: A PET scan is recommended for a detailed analysis of cancer, and it helps determine if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Cost: Around ₹15,000 ($190)
B. Post-Treatment Costs:
After your treatment, the hospital may recommend follow-up procedures or visits. These additional steps will contribute to your overall bill, so it’s important to consider them when calculating the total cost of breast cancer treatment in India.
| Services | Nature of services and their cost estimation |
|---|---|
| Medication cost | During and after treatment, your medical team will likely prescribe medications, which will contribute to the overall cost of your breast cancer treatment. |
| On-request services | If you extend your hospital stay or opt for on-demand services, these additional requests will also increase the overall cost of your treatment. |
| Extra consultations | There may also be a need for additional consultations with your doctor, which will add to the total cost of your treatment. |
| Complications and unanticipated care | The cost of monitoring and managing any complications, as well as any unforeseen medical conditions, will be added to the final bill. |
| Follow up costs | Once your breast cancer treatment is completed, regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your recovery. |
What are the costs of breast cancer treatment in other countries?
| Treatment | Surgery cost | Radiation therapy | Chemotherapy (per session) |
|---|---|---|---|
| India | $2,200 – $4,500 | $3,000 – $7,500 | $800 – $4,000 |
| USA | $7600 – $17,000 | $15,000 – $21,000 | $5000 – $35000 |
| Thailand | $3000 – $6000 | $6400 – $10,000 | $900 – $4500 |
| Singapore | $3500 – $6500 | $4,000 – $7000 | $1500 – $5000 |
As observed, among all the medically advanced countries, India offers the most affordable breast cancer treatment, with a remarkably high success rate.
What is the cost of the breast cancer vaccine in India?
The cost of breast cancer vaccines in India has not yet been firmly established, as these vaccines are still in the clinical trial phase. Here are some key details regarding their status and potential costs:
- Current Status: Breast cancer vaccines are still undergoing clinical trials and are not available for widespread use. These trials are focused on determining the correct dosage and effectiveness.
- Availability Timeline: It will likely take several more years of research before these vaccines become available to the public. Ongoing studies aim to make these vaccines a preventive option, particularly for individuals at high risk of developing breast cancer.
- Potential Costs: The cost of breast cancer vaccines will depend on factors such as production methods and distribution scale. For context, widely available vaccines typically cost between ₹2,000 and ₹4,000 ($25 to $50) per dose. However, personalized or more complex vaccines could be considerably more expensive.
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Other Details
Why Choose Breast Cancer Treatment in India?
- Affordable Costs: Breast cancer treatment in India is considerably more affordable than in many other countries. This includes the costs of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other treatments.
- High-Quality Medical Care: India is home to world-class hospitals and healthcare facilities, equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed by highly skilled and experienced oncologists and medical professionals.
- Comprehensive Treatment Options: Patients have access to a full spectrum of treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy, all provided under one roof.
- Advanced Technology: Indian hospitals use the latest medical technology and equipment to ensure that patients receive the most effective and up-to-date treatments.
- Internationally Accredited Hospitals: Many hospitals in India are accredited by international organizations like JCI (Joint Commission International) and NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers), guaranteeing high standards of healthcare.
- Experienced Oncologists: India boasts a large number of renowned oncologists with years of expertise in treating breast cancer, offering patients top-tier care.
- Holistic Care: Many Indian hospitals provide holistic support, including nutrition counseling, psychological care, and rehabilitation services, which are essential for cancer recovery.
- Medical Tourism Support: India is a favored destination for medical tourism, with hospitals offering comprehensive support services to international patients, including assistance with travel, accommodation, and post-treatment care.
Choosing India for breast cancer treatment allows patients to receive world-class care at a fraction of the cost they would pay in other countries.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What questions should I ask my doctor during my first cancer appointment?
It’s essential to have an open and honest discussion with your cancer care team. Address any concerns you have so that you can make well-informed decisions regarding your treatment and life choices. Here’s a list of questions you can ask your doctor during your first consultation:
- What type of breast cancer am I diagnosed with?
- What stage is my cancer at?
- How large is the tumor, and where is it located?
- Has my cancer spread to other parts of my body?
- What is the hormone receptor status of my cancer?
- What is HER2, and what is the HER2 status of my cancer?
- What are the available treatment options for me?
- How much experience do you have in treating breast cancer?
- How soon do I need to begin treatment, and what is the expected duration?
What treatment options are available for breast cancer in India?
The treatment options provided by a breast cancer specialist include surgery, radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, and chemotherapy. The type of surgery depends on the stage and type of cancer. For example, lumpectomy involves removing the tumor with a small margin of healthy tissue, while mastectomy involves removing the entire breast. Additional surgeries like sentinel lymph node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection may be done to check for cancer in the lymph nodes. If the cancer is hormone-receptor-positive, hormonal therapy is used to block the production of estrogen and progesterone. Chemotherapy involves using medications to destroy cancer cells or shrink the tumor before surgery. Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells.
What are the signs and symptoms of breast cancer?
Some common signs and symptoms of breast cancer include:
- A lump in the breast or underarm is often the first and most noticeable symptom.
Other potential symptoms may include:
- Changes in the skin of the breast.
- Tenderness or soreness in the breast.
- A change in the appearance of a nipple, such as it turning inward.
- Unusual discharge from the nipple.
What is the price of breast cancer treatment in India?
Breast cancer treatment in India typically ranges from INR 7,00,000 to INR 16,50,000, depending on the cancer’s stage and the type of treatment selected (e.g., surgery, radiation, and medical treatments). Several factors influence the overall cost of treatment, as outlined below:
Factors Affecting the Cost:
- Pre-procedure Tests: INR 40,000 to INR 50,000, which includes tests like X-ray, ultrasound, CT scan, blood tests, PET CT, and biopsy.
- Cost of Medications and Drug Combinations: INR 2,00,000 to INR 7,00,000, depending on the type of cancer, and the number of treatment sessions (surgery, radiation, medical therapy, etc.).
- Follow-up Consultation Fees: Vary based on medical advice and the chosen treatment course.
- Progress Monitoring Tests: Approximately INR 4,000 to INR 5,000, depending on the healthcare provider.
- Daycare or Hospital Stay: The cost depends on the treatment plan. For medical or radiation therapy, 1-2 days of daycare may be required, while post-surgery stays can last 3-4 days in the hospital.
What is the recovery time after breast cancer treatment?
The recovery time from breast cancer treatment varies depending on several factors, including the stage of cancer and the type of treatment received. Your doctor will assess your recovery time based on how far the cancer has progressed and the treatment approach. Here’s an overview of the recovery process:
- Surgery: Recovery from less complex surgeries may take a few days to a week. However, for more extensive surgeries, it may take several weeks, depending on the type of procedure performed.
- Medical Treatments: This includes chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy, which may involve oral medications or intravenous drugs. Recovery time after these treatments can vary widely, with most patients needing at least three months to recover from a single session, depending on the individual’s condition.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation can cause skin reactions, which may last 1-2 weeks after treatment. Full recovery from the effects of radiation typically takes anywhere from a few weeks to two months, depending on the patient’s condition.
How does a breast cancer doctor detect or diagnose breast cancer in India?
Breast cancer is diagnosed using a variety of tests and procedures, including the following:
- Breast Exam: Your doctor will examine both breasts and the lymph nodes in your armpits to check for abnormalities or any signs of trouble.
- Mammography: A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast, commonly used to detect breast cancer. If any abnormalities are found during a screening mammogram, further testing may be recommended by your doctor.
- Ultrasound: This technique uses sound waves to create images of structures inside the body. It helps determine if a new breast lump is a solid mass or a fluid-filled cyst.
- Biopsy: A biopsy is the only definitive way to confirm a breast cancer diagnosis. During the procedure, a sample of tissue is taken from the suspicious area using a needle, often guided by X-ray or other imaging tests. A small metal marker is often placed in the area to help identify it in future tests. The biopsy sample is sent to a lab for analysis to determine if the cells are malignant, how advanced the cancer is, and whether the cancer cells have hormone receptors or other markers.
- Breast MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of your breast. A contrast dye is injected before the scan. Unlike other imaging techniques, MRI does not use radiation.
What is the process for undergoing a breast cancer screening?
The procedures for breast cancer screening include:
- Clinical Breast Exam: A doctor physically examines the breasts using their hands to check for lumps or any other changes.
- Mammography: This is an X-ray of the breasts and is considered one of the best methods for early cancer detection. It can reveal lumps or changes before they are noticeable to the patient or doctor. There are three types of mammography:
- Film Mammography: Provides an X-ray image of the breast.
- Digital Mammography: Generates a computer-based image of the breast.
- Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT): Produces images of the breasts from multiple angles to create a 3D picture.
- Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This technique uses radio waves to capture images of the breasts. It is typically recommended for women at high risk of breast cancer, such as those with a family history or other risk factors.
- Breast Ultrasound: This is often used for pregnant women who cannot undergo mammography due to the X-ray exposure or MRI limitations. It’s also used for women with dense breast tissue, where traditional mammography may not be as effective in detecting cancer.
How frequently should you perform a breast self-examination (BSE)?
If you are still menstruating, the best time to perform a breast self-examination (BSE) is:
- When your breasts are not as swollen or tender.
- Typically, 5 to 10 days after your period starts.
If you no longer have a period, set a reminder to check your breasts on the first of every month.
Breast self-examination is also recommended for men at high risk of breast cancer. Perform a self-exam every month.
Other symptoms that indicate you should consult a doctor include:
- Thickening, a lump, or a hard knot in the breast
- Clotting, heat, dryness, or spots on the skin
- Changes in the size or shape of the breast
- Itching, scaly sores, or rashes on the nipple, or dimpling of the skin
- Nipple or skin-pulling
- Unexplained nipple discharge