The bladder is an organ near our pelvis area, which usually stores urine. The bladder is also included in the urinary system, which consists of the kidney, urethra and ureter. Your bladder contracts to release urine and stretches to hold it. You control your bladder, specifically when to urinate and when to hold it.
When the cells of an organ grow out of control, the condition is considered cancer, and the bladder is no exception. When the bladder cells grow rapidly or uncontrollably, it is considered bladder cancer.
Bladder cancer can occur due to some lifestyle and environmental factors, which basically include:
- Smoking
- Chemical exposure
- Bladder infection
- Age & gender
- Genetic factor
- Previously opted cancer treatment
Bladder cancer is the 9th most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide, according to GLOBOCAN. And the chances of its occurrence are more common in men than in women. Getting a diagnosis early is crucial; the sooner cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat.
How much does Bladder Cancer Treatment Cost in India?
The approximate cost of bladder cancer treatment in India usually ranges between ₹5,00,000 and ₹7,00,000 (7,000 USD – 10,000). Still, the price depends upon the type of treatment, severity of the cancer, type of hospital, surgeon expertise, and many other factors.
Cost comparison of bladder cancer treatment in different cities
Below is an estimated cost comparison of bladder cancer treatment in different cities of India. However, do note that it may vary depending upon numerous factors, such as the type and stage of cancer and the specific treatments required.
| City | Estimated Cost (INR) | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | 4,00,000 – 7,00,000 | 4,8008,400 |
| Delhi/NCR | 3,80,000 – 6,50,000 | 4,600 7,800 |
| Bengaluru | 3,50,000 – 6,00,000 | 4,200 7,200 |
| Hyderabad | 3,20,000 – 5,80,000 | 3,800 7,000 |
| Chennai | 3,00,000 – 5,50,000 | 3,600 – 6,600 |
| Pune/Ahmedabad | 2,80,000 – 5,00,000 | 3,400 – 6,000 |
What is the Treatment Cost of Bladder Cancer in India?
Below is the typical breakdown of the treatment cost of bladder cancer in India:
| Procedure/Examination | Estimated Cost (INR) | Estimated Cost (USD) |
| Consultation & Evaluation | ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 | $24 – $60 |
| Diagnostic Tests (Biopsy, Imaging, Blood Tests) | ₹3,000 – ₹10,000 | $36 – $120 |
| TURBT (Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor) | ₹50,000 – ₹1,50,000 | $600 – $1,800 |
| Radical Cystectomy (Bladder Removal Surgery) | ₹2,00,000 – ₹5,00,000 | $2,400 – $6,000 |
| Chemotherapy (per cycle) | ₹20,000 – ₹50,000 | $240 – $600 |
| Radiation Therapy | ₹50,000 – ₹2,00,000 | $600 – $2,400 |
| Immunotherapy (per month) | ₹1,00,000 – ₹3,00,000 | $1,200 – $3,600 |
| Targeted Therapy (per month) | ₹1,50,000 – ₹5,00,000 | $1,800 – $6,000 |
| Post-Treatment Follow-ups & Medication (per year) | ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 | $120 – $600 |
Cost Comparison of Bladder Cancer Treatment in Different Countries
The cost of bladder cancer treatment is different in every country, below is the list of some of the top destinations for bladder cancer treatment, with their cost in their respective currency.
| Country | Estimated Cost |
| United States | $30,000 – $100,000+ (USD) |
| United Kingdom | Covered by NHS (Public) / £15,000 – £40,000 (Private) |
| Germany | €23,000 – €55,000 (EUR) |
| Thailand | ฿250,000 – ฿700,000 (THB) |
| Singapore | S$27,000 – S$67,000 (SGD) |
| Turkey | ₺150,000 – ₺450,000 (TRY) |
| UAE | AED 73,000 – AED 220,000 (AED) |
Please note that the currency rate may fluctuate over time, so it’s advisable to check the cost before making any decision.
Types of Bladder Cancer
There are many types of bladder cancer based on numerous factors, but some of the main types are:
- Urothelial carcinoma: It is the most common type of bladder cancer, and it starts on the inner lining of the bladder. Most of the time when people get diagnosed with bladder cancer, then they will be most likely diagnosed with urothelial carcinoma.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: It is most invasive type of cancer, and accounts for only 4-5% of bladder cancer cases.
- Adenocarcinoma: It starts from the glandular cells in the bladder, and is most rarest case, only 1% of bladder cancer cases.
- Sarcomatoid Carcinoma: Sarcomatoid Carcinoma of bladder is the most aggressive type of cancer, It is a biphasic tumor, meaning it contains both epithelial (carcinomatous) and mesenchymal (sarcomatous) components.
Note: This cancer is often associated with a poor prognosis due to its rapid growth and tendency to spread.
Factors Affecting Bladder Cancer Treatment Cost in India
There are n numbers of factors which affect the cost of bladder cancer treatment in India, but the major factors are:
- Type and stage of cancer: The type and stage of bladder cancer affect the treatment plan and overall cost. Different types require different treatments, and advanced stages may need more intensive care, increasing expenses.
- Treatment type: Treatment options consist of four main types, which include Surgery, Chemotherapy, Radiation Therapy, and Targeted Therapy, each with distinct costs.
- Hospital and location: Treatment in hospitals of metro cities costs higher compared to other cities with normal or government facility.
- Surgeon expertise: A surgeon with high experience charges higher fees.
- Hospital stay and post-treatment care: Extended hospital stay will cost more, and ICU care, and post-treatment medications also effects the overall cost of treatment.
Bladder Cancer: When Should You See a Doctor?
Some of the basic warning signs which tell you to see a doctor are:
- Blood in urine (orange, pink or rarely, dark red)
- Repeated urge to pee
- Pain while peeing
- Frequent bladder infection
- Back ache
If any of these symptoms are persistent make an appointment with your doctor right away.
How Can Cancer Rounds help you?
Cancerrounds assists patients from around the world in planning their cancer treatment in India, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Our services include scheduling appointments, providing cost estimates, arranging travel and accommodation, and offering interpreter services to overcome any language barriers.
FAQs
1. Will my health insurance cover the costs of bladder cancer treatment in India, and what are the typical coverage limitations?
Health insurance coverage for bladder cancer treatment in India varies by policy and insurer. Contact your provider to confirm coverage, waiting periods, exclusions, and pre-authorization requirements, especially for treatments like immunotherapy.
2. If I am an international patient seeking bladder cancer treatment in India, what are the additional costs I should be aware of?
Beyond treatment costs, international patients should budget for visas, flights, accommodation, food, local transportation, and potential communication and interpretation expenses.
3. Can you recover from bladder cancer?
Yes, recovery is possible, especially if detected early, with treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy.
4. Does bladder cancer spread quickly?
It depends on the type; some, like invasive carcinoma, spread fast, while others grow slowly.
5. Can you live without a bladder?
Yes, with a urinary diversion procedure like an ileal conduit or neobladder.
