Breast Cancer Treatment Cost in India

Posted on: Nov 12, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Breast Cancer Treatment Cost in India

Breast cancer has been found to be the most common type of cancer among women in India contributing to a large percentage of cancer patients. The Global Cancer Observatory recognises breast cancer as not solely a health concern but a social problem; it affects so many families and communities. Although, through the improved technology in the health sector and the availability of treatment procedures, the mortality rates in breast cancer have been reduced, the cost of treatment may be highly prohibitive to many patients and their families.

Knowledge of the cost factors in breast cancer treatment is important to the patient, and the family as well since it will assist them in the planning of how the costs will be met. This blog aims to provide a comprehensive overview of breast cancer treatment costs in India, including diagnostic tests and treatment options available across major cities.

How Much Does It Cost for Breast Cancer Treatment in India?

Based on the factors highlighted above, the cost of breast cancer treatment in India differs with stage, treatment modality, and treatment centre. On average, breast cancer treatment costs can range from INR 1,00,000 to INR 10,00,000 or more.

Here’s a breakdown of the various components involved in breast cancer treatment:

1. Consultation Fees:

Initial consultations with oncologists cost from INR 500 to INR 2000 depending on the rank of a doctor and the hospital.

2. Diagnostic Tests:

However, in the course of the disease, several diagnostic tests should be done to diagnose the disease and stage it. Common tests include:

• Mammography:

Range between INR 1000 up to cost of INR 3000.

• Ultrasound:

It is worth between INR 1,500 and INR 5,000.

• Biopsy:

This costs between INR 2,000 and INR 10,000 depending on the method chosen by the client.

3. Surgery:

Surgical options are dependent on the nature of the surgical procedure that needs to be performed:

• Lumpectomy:

The treatment may take anywhere from INR 1,00,000 to INR 3,00,000.

• Mastectomy:

The charges could vary from 2 Lacs to 5 Lacs depending upon bilateral or unilateral surgery.

4. Chemotherapy:

The price of chemotherapy differs depending on the type of drug given and on the number of rounds administered. The total cost varies from INR 50,000 to INR 3,00,000.

5. Radiation Therapy:

Normally the cost of radiation therapy may come anywhere between 20000INR to 150000INR depending on how many sessions are required.

6. Hormonal Therapy:

If hormonal therapy is necessary, that may cost anything between INR 30,000 to INR 1,00,000 per annum depending on the hormones that are required for treatment.

7. Follow-Up Care:

General follow-up consultations with blood tests and other examinations can cost between INR 5000-INR 15000 per session.

Considering these costs, it’s essential for patients to explore options for financial support through health insurance or critical illness insurance, which can significantly ease the financial burden associated with breast cancer treatment.

Breast Cancer Diagnosis Tests and its cost in India

In breast cancer, diagnosis also plays an important role because, without diagnosis, appropriate action cannot be taken. The following tests are commonly conducted, along with their average costs:

1. Mammography:

• It is important in classifying diseases of breast tissues within this examination known as X-ray.

• Cost: INR 1,000 to INR 3,000.

2. Breast Ultrasound:

• This test is commonly used along with mammography to determine if a mass is a solid tumour or simply a cyst filled with fluids.

• Cost: INR 1,500 to INR 5,000.

3. Biopsy:

• The first and most important test that’s needed is a biopsy that will show the presence of cancerous cells. Depending on the nature of the growth the method of using the biopsy may be either needle biopsy or excisional biopsy.

• Cost: INR 2,000 to INR 10,000.

4. MRI of the Breast:

• The health care provider may order another imaging of the breast tissue, such as an MRI, especially if the breast density is high.

• Cost: INR 5,000 to INR 15,000.

5. Genetic Testing:

• In women who have breast cancer or who have close relatives with the disease, doctors may recommend a test to check for BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations.

• Cost: INR 15,000 to INR 40,000.

These diagnostic tests are very important in helping prepare the right course of action.

India's major cities' breast cancer treatment costs

The cost of breast cancer treatment largely depends on the city that one is located in. Here’s a comparative overview of the average costs in some of India’s major cities:

Mumbai:

• Consultation Fees: INR 1,000 to INR 3,000.

• Surgery Costs: INR 2,00,000 to INR 6,00,000.

• Chemotherapy: INR 1,00,000 to INR 4,00,000.

• Radiation: INR 30,000 to INR 1,00,000.

Delhi:

• Consultation Fees: INR 800 to INR 2,500.

• Surgery Costs: INR 1,50,000 to INR 5,00,000.

• Chemotherapy: INR 80,000 to INR 3,00,000.

• Radiation: INR 20,000 to INR 1,00,000.

Bangalore:

• Consultation Fees: INR 600 to INR 2,000.

• Surgery Costs: INR 1,80,000 to INR 5,00,000.

• Chemotherapy: INR 70,000 to INR 2,50,000.

• Radiation: INR 25,000 to INR 80,000.

Chennai:

• Consultation Fees: INR 500 to INR 1,500.

• Surgery Costs: INR 1,50,000 to INR 4,50,000.

• Chemotherapy: INR 60,000 to INR 2,00,000.

• Radiation: INR 20,000 to INR 70,000.

Hyderabad:

• Consultation Fees: INR 700 to INR 2,000.

• Surgery Costs: INR 1,50,000 to INR 4,00,000.

• Chemotherapy: INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000.

• Radiation: INR 20,000 to INR 75,000.

However, it is necessary to note that these figures only give an idea of an average and there might be a lot of differences in some cases. Every patient should seek opinions from several doctors in order to get personalised costs for treatment plans.

Conclusion

It is also financially costly to undergo breast cancer treatment in India, yet, if confronted with this challenge, patients and their families are not informed of the numerous expenses related to the disease. Be it identifying a disease, surgery, or even the management steps taken after diagnosis, everything is costly. However, options such as health insurance and critical illness insurance can alleviate some of these financial burdens, making treatment more accessible.

Since people get more acquainted with the disease, there is much emphasis placed on the need to detect the diseases in the early stages and treat them appropriately. The patients should agree to undergo routine screening and consult the doctors when the need arises to prevent technical failure.

FAQs

1. What are the average costs of breast cancer treatment in India?

The cost of breast cancer treatment in India can range from INR 1,00,000 to INR 10,00,000, depending on factors like cancer stage and treatment type. Key expenses include consultations, diagnostic tests, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

2. How can health insurance help with breast cancer treatment costs?

Health and critical illness insurance can significantly alleviate the financial burden of breast cancer treatment by covering various expenses, including diagnostics, surgeries, and therapies. Patients are encouraged to explore their insurance options to ensure comprehensive financial support during treatment.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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