Table of Content
Introduction
In India, immunotherapy costs typically range from ₹1,50,000 ($1,830) to ₹4,55,000 ($5,550) per session. This advanced cancer treatment enhances the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. Costs vary depending on the type of immunotherapy and the patient’s specific medical needs.
Dr. Donald Babu, a leading oncologist in Mumbai, says, “Immunotherapy is a groundbreaking treatment that strengthens the immune system to target and destroy cancer cells. It is particularly effective for certain cancers where traditional treatments might not work as well, offering better results and often fewer side effects.”
This guide will explain the costs of immunotherapy in India and why it’s an excellent treatment option for many patients.
Have questions about your treatment expenses? Contact us today for personalized information!
Cost in Top Cities
| Cities | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹1,66,000 | ₹2,95,000 | ₹5,02,000 |
| Ahmedabad | ₹1,38,000 | ₹2,46,000 | ₹4,20,000 |
| Bengaluru | ₹1,62,000 | ₹2,88,000 | ₹4,90,000 |
| Mumbai | ₹1,71,000 | ₹3,05,000 | ₹5,20,000 |
| Pune | ₹1,56,000 | ₹2,79,000 | ₹4,75,000 |
| Chennai | ₹1,48,000 | ₹2,66,000 | ₹4,50,000 |
| Hyderabad | ₹1,43,000 | ₹2,58,000 | ₹4,36,000 |
| Kolkata | ₹1,31,000 | ₹2,36,000 | ₹4,03,000 |
More Information
Immunotherapy in India is much more affordable compared to other countries. The number of sessions a patient needs can vary based on their condition and may occur monthly or at different intervals.
Which Types of Cancer Can Be Treated with Immunotherapy?
The cost of immunotherapy in India depends on the type of cancer being treated. Below is a breakdown of estimated costs for immunotherapy for various common cancers:
(Provide the updated cost breakdown for different types of cancer here.)
Would you like me to include the latest cost details or additional examples?
1. Bladder Cancer
Immunotherapy in India is used to treat advanced bladder cancer, especially for patients who cannot undergo cisplatin chemotherapy.
This therapy helps improve treatment outcomes, lowers the chances of cancer returning, and increases the patient’s survival rate.
BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guerin) was the first approved immunotherapy for bladder cancer. It works by boosting the immune system to attack both bacteria and nearby cancer cells.
Common immunotherapy drugs for bladder cancer include:
- Atezolizumab (Tecentriq)
- Durvalumab (Imfinzi)
- Nivolumab (Opdivo®)
- Pembrolizumab (Keytruda)
Survival Rates:
- For advanced bladder cancer: ~34% (5-year survival rate)
- For metastatic bladder cancer: ~5% (5-year survival rate)
Cost of Immunotherapy Drugs in India:
The cost depends on the specific drug and treatment plan. Let me know if you’d like detailed price estimates!
| Medicine | Cost |
|---|---|
| Atezolizumab (Tecentriq) | ₹2,10,000 – ₹2,25,000 |
| Durvalumab (Imfinzi) | ₹1,45,000 – ₹1,55,000 |
| Nivolumab (Opdivo) | ₹1,05,000 – ₹1,20,000 |
| Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) | ₹1,70,000 – ₹1,85,000 |
2. Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women. In India, patients can find some of the best specialists, which helps improve the chances of successful treatment.
Atezolizumab (Tecentriq) was the first immunotherapy drug approved in India for treating triple-negative breast cancer, a more aggressive form of the disease. Currently, other immunotherapy drugs are also being tested in clinical trials, and some have shown promising results.
Immunotherapy for breast cancer can be expensive, but with the advancement of treatment options in India, patients have access to world-class care at relatively lower costs compared to many other countries.
The cost of immunotherapy for breast cancer in India includes:
| Medicine | Cost |
|---|---|
| Atezolizumab (Tecentriq) | ₹1,98,000 (~$2,759) |
3. Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women worldwide. It is often linked to an infection caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Vaccines are available to help prevent HPV infections, which can lead to cervical cancer.
The five-year survival rate for women with advanced cervical cancer is around 17%.
Immunotherapy drugs used for cervical cancer in India include:
| Medicine | Cost |
|---|---|
| Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) | ₹1,50,000 to ₹1,60,000 ($2,091 to $2,230) |
4. Colorectal Cancer and Immunotherapy
Colorectal cancer includes both colon and rectal cancers. Immunotherapy for colorectal cancer can target different pathways, such as the EGFR pathway or the VEGF/VEGFR2 pathway, to help prevent tumor blood vessel growth. This can be crucial for improving treatment outcomes, particularly in advanced stages.
The 5-year survival rate for patients with advanced colorectal cancer is around 15%.
Here are the costs for immunotherapy drugs used to treat colorectal cancer in India:
| Medicine | Cost |
|---|---|
| Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) | ₹1,50,000 to ₹1,60,000 (~$2,091 to ~$2,230) |
| Nivolumab (Opdivo) | ₹99,291 (~$1,383) |
5. Oesophageal Cancer
Oesophageal cancer can be categorized into two main types: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Immunotherapy for oesophageal cancer works in three key ways:
- Monoclonal Antibodies: These antibodies target specific pathways such as the VEGF/VEGFR2 pathway, which helps restrict the growth of blood vessels that supply the tumor.
- HER2 Pathway: Some treatments target the HER2 pathway, which is involved in tumor growth.
- Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: These block the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, which helps the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells.
The 5-year survival rate for patients with advanced oesophageal cancer is 5%.
Immunotherapy Drug Costs in India for Oesophageal Cancer:
| Targeted Antibodies | |
| Medicine | Cost |
| Ramucirumab (Cyramza) | ₹1,60,000 to ₹2,00,000 (approximately $2,230 to $2,788) |
| Trastuzumab (Herceptin) | Prices vary based on the hospital and brand but generally fall in a similar range to other cancer immunotherapy drugs. |
| Immunomodulators | |
| Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) | ₹1,50,000 to ₹1,60,000 (approximately $2,091 to $2,230) |
6. Immunotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer
Head and neck cancer refers to cancers in areas such as the mouth, throat, voice box, nasal cavity, and salivary glands. Immunotherapy is a treatment that can help boost the body’s immune system to fight these cancers. There are two main types of immunotherapy used for head and neck cancer:
- Monoclonal antibodies target the EGFR pathway, which is involved in cancer cell growth.
- Checkpoint inhibitors target the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, which helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
The cost of immunotherapy drugs for head and neck cancer in India includes:
| Targeted Antibodies | |
| Medicine | Cost |
| Cetuximab (Erbitux) | ₹1,01,000 ($1,408) |
| Immunomodulators | |
| Nivolumab (Opdivo) | ₹99,291 ($1,383) |
| Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) | ₹1,50,000 to ₹1,60,000 ($2,091 to $2,230) |
7. Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer is commonly caused by renal cell carcinomas, which are cancers that develop in the kidney’s tubules. Immunotherapy can be used for advanced stages of kidney cancer. This treatment includes immune-stimulating chemicals known as cytokines.
The 5-year survival rate for advanced kidney cancer patients is around 5%.
These medications help stimulate the immune system to fight cancer more effectively. Prices can vary depending on the type of cancer and the stage of the disease.
Immunotherapy Drugs and Costs for Kidney Cancer in India:
| Medicine | Amount |
|---|---|
| Avelumab (Bavencio) | ₹86,860 ($1,223) |
| Ipilimumab (Yervoy) | Not available |
| Interleukin-2 (IL-2) | ₹42,958 ($605) |
| Interferon-alfa | Not available |
Additional Costs:
Immunotherapy treatment in India involves extra costs besides the therapy itself. Before starting, the doctor may recommend tests to check if the patient is healthy enough for immunotherapy.
| Tests/Services | Description | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation Fees | Fees for a consultation with a medical oncologist. | ₹1,500 – ₹7,000 ($21 – $100) |
| Investigation Tests | Includes urine tests, ECG, CBC, etc., to assess overall health and fitness for immunotherapy. | ₹55,000 – ₹85,000 ($750 – $1,150) |
| PDL1 Test | Measures the PDL1 protein on cancer cells to determine suitability for immunotherapy. | ₹18,000 – ₹35,000 ($240 – $470) |
| Extra Medications | Additional medications to manage side effects post-immunotherapy. | Variable, based on individual needs |
Considering these factors will help you estimate the overall expenses for cancer treatment more accurately.
Factors Affecting Immunotherapy Costs in India
Immunotherapy costs in India can vary between patients, depending on several key factors:
- Spread of Cancer (Metastasis): If the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, it might increase the cost.
- Type of Cancer: Different cancers require different treatments, which can affect costs.
- Health of the Patient: A patient’s overall health and other medical conditions may impact the treatment plan and its cost.
- Duration of the Treatment: Longer treatment periods typically mean higher costs.
- Treatment Plan: The specific plan prescribed by the doctor can also influence costs.
Other Details
Cost Comparison of Immunotherapy in India and developed countries
| Countries | Costs |
|---|---|
| India | ₹1,50,000 – ₹4,50,000 ($1,830 – $5,500) |
| United States | ₹1,25,00,000 – ₹1,50,00,000 ($15,000 – $18,000) |
| Canada | ₹60,00,000 – ₹70,00,000 ($7,300 – $8,500) |
| Germany | ₹9,50,000 – ₹12,00,000 ($1,150 – $1,500) |
Immunotherapy in India is much more affordable compared to countries like the US, UK, and Singapore.
The graph above clearly shows the price difference between immunotherapy in India and other countries.
You might be wondering why immunotherapy in India is less expensive than in developed countries. Here’s why:
- Currency Difference: The primary reason for the lower cost of immunotherapy in India is the currency exchange rate. The Indian rupee is weaker compared to currencies like the dollar or euro, which makes treatment costs much cheaper.
- Lower Living Costs: Living expenses in India are about 65% lower than in developed countries, allowing medical services to be offered at a much lower cost.
- Competition in Healthcare: India has a large number of hospitals and healthcare providers, creating competition that helps keep treatment costs lower while maintaining high standards of care.
Success Rate of Immunotherapy in India
Immunotherapy’s success rate in India has significantly improved. The five-year survival rate for patients has increased from 5.5% in 2012 to 28% in 2019. This is much higher than traditional treatments like chemotherapy or radiation for advanced cancers, making immunotherapy a leading choice for better results.
Immunotherapy has been effective in treating 15 types of cancers, including skin, lung, kidney, and bladder cancers, and the list continues to grow.
Dr. Shripad Banavali, a prominent oncologist at Tata Memorial Hospital, mentioned in an article in The Hindu that immunotherapy is currently the most promising area of cancer treatment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of immunotherapy treatment in India?
The average cost of immunotherapy treatment in India typically ranges between ₹1,50,000 and ₹4,50,000 per session. However, this can vary based on the type of cancer, specific medications used, the treatment center, and other factors such as the patient’s health condition.
For example, for some types of cancer like lung or bladder cancer, specific immunotherapy drugs like Pembrolizumab or Nivolumab can cost between ₹1,50,000 and ₹1,60,000 per session. In contrast, other types of cancer may involve treatments that are more or less expensive. Factors such as the number of sessions required, the use of combination therapies, and additional costs like hospital stays, tests, and follow-up visits can influence the overall cost.
Immunotherapy in India is considered significantly more affordable compared to developed countries like the U.S., Canada, or the U.K., where the treatment cost can be several times higher.
For more detailed pricing, it’s important to consult with an oncologist, as they can provide a personalized estimate based on the specific treatment plan.
What is Immunotherapy and How Does it Work?
Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses the body’s own immune system to fight cancer. Unlike traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, which target cancer cells directly, immunotherapy works by boosting or stimulating the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells.
There are various types of immunotherapies, including:
- Monoclonal Antibodies: These are lab-made molecules that can bind to specific targets on cancer cells, helping the immune system identify and attack them.
- Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: These drugs help the immune system recognize cancer cells by blocking certain proteins that prevent immune cells from attacking the tumor.
- Cancer Vaccines: These vaccines stimulate the immune system to target specific cancer-related proteins or antigens.
- Cytokine Therapy: This method uses substances that help activate the immune system, making it easier for the body to fight cancer.
By targeting specific pathways that help cancer cells grow and survive, immunotherapy offers a more precise treatment option, often with fewer side effects than traditional therapies.
Immunotherapy has shown promise for treating cancers such as melanoma, lung cancer, and bladder cancer, and its use is expanding for various other types. It is especially effective in cases where traditional treatments may not work or for advanced cancers.
Comparison of Immunotherapy Treatment Costs in India vs. Other Countries
Immunotherapy is an advanced cancer treatment, and its cost varies significantly depending on the country. Here’s a comparison of the cost of immunotherapy between India and some other countries:
Germany provides high-quality medical treatment, but the cost is still lower compared to the US, largely due to different healthcare system structures and pricing regulations.
India
Cost: The cost of immunotherapy treatment in India ranges from ₹1,00,000 to ₹4,30,000 ($1,200 – $5,500) per session.
India is known for offering high-quality medical treatments at a fraction of the price compared to developed countries due to factors like lower labor costs, a favorable exchange rate, and competitive healthcare facilities.
United States
Cost: The price of immunotherapy treatment in the US can range between ₹1,22,44,500 to ₹1,36,05,000 ($150,000 – $165,000).
In the US, healthcare costs are significantly higher, and the expense of immunotherapy is affected by factors such as insurance, hospital billing systems, and the cost of drugs.
Canada
Cost: Immunotherapy costs in Canada range from ₹53,31,830 to ₹58,60,523 ($65,000 – $71,000).
Canada’s healthcare system, although publicly funded, has higher treatment costs, especially for advanced therapies like immunotherapy.
Germany
Cost: In Germany, immunotherapy costs range from ₹8,24,951 to ₹10,58,254 ($10,000 – $12,800).
Factors contributing to variation in immunotherapy treatment costs in different hospitals or clinics in India?
The cost of immunotherapy treatment in India can vary significantly across different hospitals and clinics. Several factors contribute to this variation, making it important to consider the following when assessing treatment options:
Insurance Coverage and Payment Models
- Insurance Plans: The level of insurance coverage, including whether the insurance plan covers immunotherapy or requires co-payments, can impact out-of-pocket expenses for the patient.
- Payment Plans: Some hospitals may offer flexible payment options or financing, which could make the treatment more affordable for patients.
Hospital Location
- Urban vs. Rural Areas: Hospitals located in major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, or Bengaluru generally charge higher rates due to higher operational costs, including rent, staff salaries, and other infrastructure expenses. In contrast, hospitals in smaller towns may offer slightly lower costs.
- Prestigious Hospitals: Well-known hospitals or those with a strong reputation for providing high-quality cancer treatment, such as Tata Memorial in Mumbai or AIIMS in Delhi, may have higher charges due to their advanced technology and skilled staff.
Type of Hospital or Clinic
- Public vs. Private: Public hospitals typically offer subsidized rates, while private hospitals and clinics may charge a premium for more personalized care, faster services, and advanced amenities. This difference can lead to a significant variation in costs for the same treatment.
- Specialized Cancer Centers: Hospitals specializing in cancer treatment, like the Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital or Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute, may offer more expertise and cutting-edge treatments, but this comes with a higher price tag.
Experience and Expertise of the Medical Team
- Renowned Oncologists: Highly experienced oncologists or specialists in immunotherapy might charge more for their services. Hospitals that attract well-known professionals may reflect this expertise in their treatment costs.
- Team Composition: The type and number of healthcare professionals involved (e.g., medical oncologists, nurses, and support staff) can affect the overall cost of treatment.
Technology and Infrastructure
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Hospitals equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, treatment machines, and specialized laboratories may have higher costs due to the maintenance of these technologies.
- Type of Immunotherapy: The specific drugs used in immunotherapy can also influence the cost. Some drugs may be more expensive than others, and the treatment plan (e.g., monoclonal antibodies vs. checkpoint inhibitors) can vary in price.
Treatment Duration and Protocol
- Frequency and Duration: The number of immunotherapy sessions required will also determine the total cost. Some patients may need longer treatment periods or higher doses, which increases the overall expense.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Customized immunotherapy regimens that are tailored to individual cancer profiles (e.g., targeting specific genetic markers or mutations) might incur higher costs compared to standard treatment protocols.
Support Services and Additional Care
- Pre-Treatment Tests: The cost of various diagnostic tests (like PET scans, PDL1 tests, and biopsies) before immunotherapy can add to the total treatment cost.
- Post-Treatment Care: Immunotherapy often requires additional care to manage side effects such as nausea, skin reactions, or fatigue, which may increase overall treatment costs.
Conclusion
The wide variation in immunotherapy costs across hospitals in India is influenced by the hospital’s location, expertise, technology, treatment protocols, and additional services provided. Patients are encouraged to research multiple hospitals, compare costs, and consult with healthcare providers to choose the best treatment option for their needs and budget.
Financial assistance programs or insurance coverage options for immunotherapy treatment in India?
In India, patients undergoing immunotherapy for cancer can explore several financial assistance programs and insurance coverage options to help manage the cost of treatment. Here’s a breakdown of the available options:
1. Health Insurance Coverage
Many health insurance policies in India now include coverage for immunotherapy, though it’s essential to confirm the specifics of each policy. Here are key points about insurance coverage:
- Individual Health Insurance Plans: Several insurance providers, such as HDFC ERGO, Religare, and Star Health, offer plans that cover cancer treatments, including immunotherapy. It’s crucial to verify that your policy explicitly covers immunotherapy and related costs like consultations, diagnostic tests, and hospital stays.
- Critical Illness Insurance: Some critical illness policies specifically cover cancer treatment, including immunotherapy. These plans often provide a lump sum payout for cancer diagnosis, which can be used for treatments such as immunotherapy.
- Top-Up Plans: If your existing health insurance doesn’t cover all costs, you may consider purchasing a top-up or rider plan that can help extend your coverage for cancer treatments, including immunotherapy.
- Pre-Approval for Treatment: Many insurance companies require pre-authorization for coverage of immunotherapy, particularly for newer treatments. Patients are advised to consult their insurance provider before starting therapy.
2. Government Schemes and Assistance
The Indian government provides several healthcare schemes aimed at making cancer treatment more affordable:
- Ayushman Bharat (PMJAY): This flagship government scheme provides health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh for eligible families. While it primarily covers general hospitalizations, certain states and hospitals under PMJAY may offer coverage for cancer treatments like immunotherapy.
- State-Specific Schemes: Some state governments have their own healthcare schemes for cancer treatment. For example, Maharashtra’s “Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Arogya Yojana” provides free cancer treatment for eligible patients, including immunotherapy, at designated hospitals.
- National Cancer Grid (NCG): NCG is an initiative aimed at providing affordable cancer care through a network of top cancer centers across India. They offer financial assistance programs for low-income patients who are eligible.
3. Charitable Organizations and NGOs
Several non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and charitable foundations offer financial assistance or subsidized treatment for cancer patients in India. Some of the notable ones include:
- The Tata Memorial Centre (TMC): TMC, one of India’s leading cancer hospitals, offers financial assistance to low-income cancer patients. Patients can apply for support through the hospital’s social welfare department.
- Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA): CPAA offers financial aid, including help with medical expenses for immunotherapy, and provides a variety of other cancer-related support services.
- Indian Cancer Society (ICS): ICS provides financial aid to patients undergoing cancer treatment, including immunotherapy, as well as support for families during the treatment process.
4. Crowdfunding Platforms
Many patients in India also turn to crowdfunding platforms to raise funds for cancer treatment, including immunotherapy. Some popular platforms include:
- Ketto and Milaap: These platforms allow cancer patients to create fundraising campaigns to cover their medical expenses. Donors from around the world contribute towards their treatment costs.
- ImpactGuru: Another crowdfunding platform that facilitates fundraising for medical treatments, including immunotherapy for cancer.
Conclusion
While the cost of immunotherapy in India can be significant, there are multiple financial assistance programs and insurance coverage options available. Patients should explore government schemes, private insurance policies, and charitable organizations to find the best option suited to their financial needs. Additionally, crowdfunding platforms provide an avenue to gather support from the community to cover the treatment costs.
It’s recommended that patients contact their healthcare providers and insurance companies for specific details about coverage and available financial aid programs.