Lung Cancer Treatment in India

Introduction

Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious types of cancer, affecting thousands of people in India every year. As the disease progresses, it can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life and overall health. However, India has made significant strides in providing advanced and effective treatment options for lung cancer. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of lung cancer treatment in India, including treatment costs, top hospitals, and the expertise available.

Lung Cancer Treatment Options

Surgery

Surgery is often the first line of treatment for patients with early-stage lung cancer. The type of surgery depends on the location and size of the tumor. Common surgical procedures include:

• Lobectomy: Removal of an entire lobe of the lung.
• Pneumonectomy: Removal of an entire lung.
• Segmentectomy: Removal of a segment of the lung.
• Wedge Resection: Removal of a small, wedge-shaped portion of the lung.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It can be used as the primary treatment or in conjunction with surgery and chemotherapy. Advanced techniques such as stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) are available in many Indian hospitals, offering precise targeting of cancer cells with minimal damage to surrounding tissues.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be administered orally or intravenously and is often used in combination with other treatments. Chemotherapy is particularly effective for treating small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and is also used to shrink tumors before surgery or radiation therapy.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy involves the use of drugs that specifically target cancer cells’ genetic mutations or proteins. This treatment is less toxic than traditional chemotherapy and is used for patients with specific genetic profiles. Drugs like gefitinib, erlotinib, and osimertinib are commonly used in targeted therapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients in India.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. It has shown promising results in treating advanced lung cancer. Drugs like pembrolizumab, nivolumab, and atezolizumab are examples of immunotherapy agents used in India.

Lung Cancer Treatment Cost in India

Lung cancer treatment cost in India varies depending on the type of treatment, stage of cancer, hospital, and city. Here is an overview of the costs associated with different treatment options:

Surgery

• Lobectomy: INR 2,50,000 to INR 4,00,000
• Pneumonectomy: INR 3,00,000 to INR 5,00,000
• Segmentectomy: INR 2,00,000 to INR 3,50,000
• Wedge Resection: INR 1,50,000 to INR 3,00,000

Radiation Therapy

• External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): INR 1,00,000 to INR 2,50,000
• Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT): INR 2,00,000 to INR 4,00,000
• Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT): INR 2,50,000 to INR 4,50,000

Chemotherapy

• Per cycle: INR 20,000 to INR 1,00,000
• The total cost depends on the number of cycles required, which varies from patient to patient.

Targeted Therapy

• Per month: INR 1,00,000 to INR 2,50,000
• The total cost depends on the duration of treatment and specific drugs used.

Immunotherapy

• Per cycle: INR 2,00,000 to INR 4,00,000
• The total cost depends on the number of cycles and the specific immunotherapy agent used.

Also Read: Breast Cancer Treatment Cost in India

Best Lung Cancer Treatment Hospitals in India

India is home to several world-class hospitals that provide comprehensive lung cancer treatment. These hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and have experienced oncologists specializing in lung cancer treatment. Here are some of the top hospitals for lung cancer treatment in India:

Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai

Tata Memorial Hospital is one of the premier cancer treatment centers in India. It offers a wide range of treatment options for lung cancer, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. The hospital is known for its cutting-edge research and advanced treatment protocols.

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi

AIIMS is a renowned institution that provides top-notch cancer care. The hospital has a dedicated oncology department with experts in lung cancer treatment. It offers advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities, including robotic surgery and precision radiation therapy.

Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

Apollo Hospitals is a leading healthcare provider in India with a strong focus on cancer treatment. The hospital offers comprehensive lung cancer treatment, including minimally invasive surgery, advanced radiation therapy, and personalized chemotherapy regimens. Apollo Hospitals is also known for its patient-centric approach and holistic care.

Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon

Fortis Memorial Research Institute is a multi-specialty hospital that excels in cancer treatment. The hospital’s oncology department has highly experienced oncologists and state-of-the-art facilities for lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. Fortis is known for its multidisciplinary approach to cancer care.

Medanta – The Medicity, Gurgaon

Medanta is one of the largest multi-specialty hospitals in India, offering advanced lung cancer treatment. The hospital’s Institute of Cancer is equipped with the latest technology and has a team of experts specializing in lung cancer. Medanta is known for its comprehensive care and innovative treatment protocols.

BLK Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi

BLK Super Speciality Hospital is a leading cancer treatment center in India. The hospital offers a wide range of treatments for lung cancer, including robotic surgery, advanced radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. BLK is known for its patient-centric approach and commitment to providing high-quality care.

Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi

Max Super Speciality Hospital is renowned for its cancer care services. The hospital’s oncology department has experienced oncologists and advanced treatment facilities for lung cancer. Max Hospital offers personalized treatment plans and holistic care for patients.

Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai

Kokilaben Hospital is a state-of-the-art facility that provides comprehensive lung cancer treatment. The hospital has a dedicated oncology department with experts in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. It offers advanced surgical techniques, precision radiation therapy, and personalized chemotherapy regimens.

Narayana Health, Bangalore

Narayana Health is a leading healthcare provider in India with a strong focus on cancer treatment. The hospital’s oncology department offers advanced lung cancer treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Narayana Health is known for its patient-centric approach and affordable care.

HCG Cancer Centre, Bangalore

HCG Cancer Centre is a specialized cancer treatment center in India. The hospital offers a wide range of lung cancer treatment options, including minimally invasive surgery, advanced radiation therapy, and personalized chemotherapy regimens. HCG is known for its comprehensive cancer care and innovative treatment protocols.

Conclusion

India has emerged as a global destination for lung cancer treatment, offering advanced and affordable treatment options. The country is home to some of the best hospitals and specialists in the field, providing comprehensive care for patients. Whether it’s surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy, patients can expect world-class treatment and compassionate care in India. The cost of treatment is significantly lower compared to Western countries, making India an attractive option for international patients seeking high-quality lung cancer care.

By choosing the right hospital and treatment plan, patients with lung cancer can achieve better outcomes and improve their quality of life. It is essential to consult with experienced oncologists and consider all available treatment options to make informed decisions about lung cancer treatment.