Blood cancer is cancer of the blood, bone marrow, or lymph system. It comprises various forms like leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Blood cancer treatment has advanced considerably over the years, leading to increased survival rates and hope for patients. Nonetheless, the treatment can be very costly, which may be a significant issue for families.
India has emerged as a choice destination for treating blood cancer owing to its well-equipped medical facilities, skilled doctors, and relatively lower prices in comparison to Western nations. The following guide is a comprehensive overview of the costs of blood cancer treatment in India, the reasons behind the cost, and various treatment options available.
What Is Blood Cancer?
Blood cancer impacts the functioning and production of blood cells. It most often begins in the bone marrow where blood is generated. The three major blood cancers are:
- Leukemia – Impacts white blood cells and causes the body to be unable to fight infections.
- Lymphoma – Occurs in the lymphatic system and affects the immune system.
- Myeloma – Impacts plasma cells and compromises the body’s ability to make antibodies.
Early treatment and prompt diagnosis can increase the recovery possibilities. But depending on the type and stage of blood cancer, the treatment necessary will vary.
Estimated Blood Cancer Treatment Cost in India
The treatment period for Leukemia cancer is very time-consuming. Hence, the patient always worries about the cost, and sometimes he or she pauses the treatment only for the cost. To reduce the pressure from the cancer patient, a considerable number of suitable hospitals are there, which gives leukemia cancer treatment in India affordable cost. As per the health condition and cell damages of the patient, proper therapy is given.
The blood cancer treatment cost in India starts from Rs 5,00,000 to Rs 25,00,000. It can increase as per the treatment procedure, and if the patient is required to transplant bone marrow, then it will cost up to Rs 45,000,00.
The treatment cost of blood cancer in India is much lower compared to the USA, UK, or Germany. Still, the cost varies depending on factors such as the hospital, treatment protocol, and therapy duration. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the cost of various blood cancer treatments in India.
1. Chemotherapy Cost
| Type | Domestic Cost (INR) | Domestic Cost (USD) | International Cost (INR) | International Cost (USD) |
| Per Cycle | ₹40,000 – ₹1,80,000 | $500 – $2,250 | ₹50,000 – ₹2,25,000 | $625 – $2,813 |
| Total (4–6 cycles) | ₹2,40,000 – ₹10,80,000 | $3,000 – $13,500 | ₹3,00,000 – ₹13,50,000 | $3,750 – $16,875 |
2. Radiation Therapy Cost
| Type | Domestic Cost (INR) | Domestic Cost (USD) | International Cost (INR) | International Cost (USD) |
| Per Session | ₹60,000 – ₹1,20,000 | $750 – $1,500 | ₹75,000 – ₹1,50,000 | $938 – $1,875 |
| Total (5–10 sessions) | ₹3,00,000 – ₹6,00,000 | $3,750 – $7,500 | ₹3,75,000 – ₹7,50,000 | $4,688 – $9,375 |
3. Targeted Therapy Cost
| Type | Domestic Cost (INR) | Domestic Cost (USD) | International Cost (INR) | International Cost (USD) |
| Per Dose | ₹1,20,000 – ₹3,50,000 | $1,500 – $4,375 | ₹1,50,000 – ₹4,37,500 | $1,875 – $5,469 |
| Total Cost | ₹8,00,000 – ₹20,00,000 | $10,000 – $25,000 | ₹10,00,000 – ₹25,00,000 | $12,500 – $31,250 |
4. Immunotherapy Cost
| Type | Domestic Cost (INR) | Domestic Cost (USD) | International Cost (INR) | International Cost (USD) |
| Per Dose | ₹1,80,000 – ₹4,50,000 | $2,250 – $5,625 | ₹2,25,000 – ₹5,62,500 | $2,813 – $7,031 |
| Total Cost | ₹10,00,000 – ₹27,00,000 | $12,500 – $33,750 | ₹12,50,000 – ₹33,75,000 | $15,625 – $42,188 |
5. Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Cost
| Type | Domestic Cost (INR) | Domestic Cost (USD) | International Cost (INR) | International Cost (USD) |
| Autologous BMT | ₹9,00,000 – ₹18,00,000 | $11,250 – $22,500 | ₹11,25,000 – ₹22,50,000 | $14,063 – $28,125 |
| Allogeneic BMT | ₹13,00,000 – ₹28,00,000 | $16,250 – $35,000 | ₹16,25,000 – ₹35,00,000 | $20,313 – $43,750 |
These are approximate costs and may be higher or lower based on the location and hospital.
Blood Cancer Treatment Cost in India Across Different Cities
| City | Domestic Cost (INR) | International Cost (INR) | Domestic Cost (USD) | International Cost (USD) |
| Delhi | ₹45,000 – ₹22,00,000 | ₹56,250 – ₹27,50,000 | $563 – $27,500 | $703 – $34,375 |
| Mumbai | ₹45,000 – ₹22,00,000 | ₹56,250 – ₹27,50,000 | $563 – $27,500 | $703 – $34,375 |
| Bangalore | ₹45,000 – ₹20,00,000 | ₹56,250 – ₹25,00,000 | $563 – $25,000 | $703 – $31,250 |
| Pune | ₹40,000 – ₹20,00,000 | ₹50,000 – ₹25,00,000 | $500 – $25,000 | $625 – $31,250 |
| Hyderabad | ₹40,000 – ₹20,00,000 | ₹50,000 – ₹25,00,000 | $500 – $25,000 | $625 – $31,250 |
| Gurgaon | ₹40,000 – ₹20,00,000 | ₹50,000 – ₹25,00,000 | $500 – $25,000 | $625 – $31,250 |
| Chennai | ₹35,000 – ₹19,00,000 | ₹43,750 – ₹23,75,000 | $438 – $23,750 | $547 – $29,688 |
| Ahmedabad | ₹40,000 – ₹20,00,000 | ₹50,000 – ₹25,00,000 | $500 – $25,000 | $625 – $31,250 |
| Kolkata | ₹35,000 – ₹19,00,000 | ₹43,750 – ₹23,75,000 | $438 – $23,750 | $547 – $29,688 |
Note: Blood cancer treatment cost can vary according to the type of cancer, location of the hospital and oncologist charges. These are just estimates.
Cost Comparison: India vs. Other Countries
One of the reasons India is a preferred destination for blood cancer treatment is its affordability compared to Western countries.
| Treatment Type | India (USD) | USA (USD) | UK (USD) | Germany (USD) |
| Chemotherapy | 3,600 – 18,000 | 30,000 – 50,000 | 20,000 – 40,000 | 25,000 – 45,000 |
| Radiation Therapy | 3,600 – 7,200 | 25,000 – 40,000 | 20,000 – 35,000 | 30,000 – 50,000 |
| Bone Marrow Transplant | 12,000 – 36,000 | 150,000 – 400,000 | 100,000 – 250,000 | 120,000 – 300,000 |
India offers similar medical expertise and facilities at a fraction of the cost, making it an attractive option for international patients.
Additional Expenses for Blood Cancer
- Consultations & Diagnostic Tests:
- Specialist consult: INR 2,000–5,000 (USD 25–60)
- Blood tests: INR 3,000–6,000 (USD 36–72)
- Bone marrow biopsy: INR 10,000–15,000 (USD 120–180)
- Imaging (CT, MRI, PET scans): INR 8,000–20,000 (USD 95–240)
- Post-Treatment Costs:
- Follow-Up Consultations: INR 1,500–5,000 per visit (USD 18–60)
- Medications: INR 2,00,000 to INR 5,00,000
- Unexpected Complications: Rare instances may require re-hospitalization, adding to overall expenses.
Factors Affecting Blood Cancer Treatment Cost in India
There are a number of factors that determine the price of blood cancer treatment in India. By understanding these factors, patients and their families can budget their finances in advance.
- Stage and Type of Cancer: Treatment is priced differently based on whether the patient has leukemia, lymphoma, or myeloma. Early-stage cancers might not need as intense a treatment, while advanced-stage cancers could necessitate costlier procedures such as bone marrow transplants.
- Required Treatment: Chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy all have various prices. It is based on the condition of the patient and the advice of the doctor as to which one is chosen.
- Hospital Choice: Government and private hospitals are available for cancer treatment in India. Treatment is available in government hospitals at a lower rate, but the private hospitals have world-class services and individual care, which will be more expensive.
- Doctor’s Fee and Hospital Costs: It will be higher for highly experienced oncologists. Fees for consultations also differ depending on the location and availability of medical facilities.
- Treatment Duration: A few treatments like chemotherapy and targeted therapy are to be given in multiple sessions spanning months. The longer duration of treatment, the more will be the total expenditure.
- Medication and Supportive Care Costs: Blood cancer medicines, such as chemotherapy agents and targeted medicines, are expensive. Other costs might involve blood transfusions, pain control, and nutritional support.
- Requirement for Bone Marrow Transplant: Bone marrow transplant (BMT) is among the best therapies for blood cancer but also the most costly. The price varies based on whether or not the donor is related and what kind of transplant is done.
Blood Cancer Treatment Options
Treatment approaches vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Below are the most common treatment options available today:
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses powerful medications to destroy cancer cells, often helping to slow disease progression or achieve remission. While effective, it can also affect healthy cells, leading to side effects such as fatigue, nausea, and lowered immunity.
Radiation Therapy
This treatment uses targeted high-energy radiation to eliminate cancer cells. It is frequently combined with chemotherapy or immunotherapy to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
Stem Cell Transplantation
Also known as a bone marrow transplant, this procedure replaces damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells. It is typically recommended for certain blood cancers, especially when other treatments have not been successful.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy helps the body’s immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Innovative approaches like monoclonal antibodies and CAR T-cell therapy have shown promising results in treating some blood cancers.
Targeted Therapy
Unlike traditional chemotherapy, targeted therapy focuses on specific genes or proteins that drive cancer growth. This precision approach helps block cancer cell development while reducing harm to healthy cells.
Watchful Waiting
For slow-growing blood cancers, immediate treatment may not be necessary. Instead, doctors may recommend regular monitoring and only intervene if the disease progresses.
Palliative Care
Palliative care focuses on symptom relief and improving quality of life, whether alongside curative treatments or as the primary approach in advanced cases. It ensures patients receive physical, emotional, and psychological support throughout their journey.
The best treatment plan depends on the type of blood cancer, its progression, and the patient’s individual needs. Thanks to ongoing medical advancements, patients today have more options and hope than ever before.
Who Should Get Blood Cancer Treatment in India?
Blood cancer treatment in India is accessible to individuals diagnosed with various types of hematologic malignancies, including leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. The decision to undergo treatment is influenced by several factors:
- Type and Stage of Cancer: Treatment approaches are tailored based on the specific type and progression of the blood cancer.
- Age and Overall Health: Younger patients and those in good general health may tolerate aggressive treatments better, while older individuals or those with existing health conditions might require modified approaches.
- Previous Treatment Responses: For patients whose cancer has relapsed or is refractory to standard treatments, advanced therapies like CAR T-cell therapy may be considered.
Hospital Categories for Blood Cancer Treatment in India
1. Government Hospitals and Public Cancer Institutes
Offer subsidized or free treatment for blood cancer through public health schemes. These hospitals are often linked with research and training programs and have high patient volumes. Suitable for patients seeking affordable treatment.
2. Private Multispecialty Hospitals
Well-equipped with modern infrastructure, these hospitals offer personalized care, shorter waiting times, and access to advanced therapies like immunotherapy or bone marrow transplants. Treatment costs are higher compared to government hospitals.
3. Charitable and Trust-Run Hospitals
Operate under nonprofit models and provide low-cost or partially subsidized treatment. These facilities often rely on donations or CSR funding and cater to economically weaker sections while maintaining decent standards of care.
4. Dedicated Cancer and Oncology Centers
Specialize exclusively in cancer care, offering end-to-end services for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. These centers may be standalone or affiliated with larger hospital chains and are ideal for patients seeking focused expertise in hematologic cancers.
5. Academic and Research Institutions
Linked with medical universities, these hospitals focus on cutting-edge research and clinical trials. Patients here may benefit from access to emerging therapies but might also be part of experimental protocols under supervision.
Insurance and Finance Options
There are several health insurance policies in India covering critical illnesses. These help you avail financial protection to cover your throat cancer treatment costs in India. Comprehensive cancer care policies often cover costs for pre-hospitalization, hospitalization, and post-hospitalization procedures; doctor consultation, diagnostic tests, and specialized treatments such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
Also financial aid is available through various sources. Government schemes like Ayushman Bharat Yojana (up to ₹5 lakh), PMNRF, HMCPF, and RAN support low-income patients, while NGOs like the Indian Cancer Society, CanKids, and CARF offer medical and financial assistance. Crowdfunding platforms (Ketto, Milaap, ImpactGuru) help raise donations, and employer-provided health insurance or CSR programs (Tata Trusts, Reliance Foundation) may also cover treatment costs.
How to Reduce Blood Cancer Treatment Costs in India?
Health Insurance – Most private and government-sponsored policies include major cancer treatments, lowering out-of-pocket costs.
- Generic Medicines & Discounts: Utilising generic equivalents and negotiating discounts on healthcare bills can prove cost-saving.
- Seeking Second Opinions: Various hospitals might provide affordable treatment options with differing pricing.
Health Insurance Plans: Several insurers sell cancer-specific plans that include cover for treatment, hospitalization, and post-treatment costs. - State-Specific Health Programs: A few Indian states offer extra financial assistance or free treatment under state health schemes.
- Clinical Trials & Research Plans: Availing government-sanctioned clinical trials can provide access to new, experimental treatments for free or a small payment.
- Preventive Health Checkups & Early Diagnosis: Detecting cancer at an early stage through routine screenings can go a long way in cutting treatment costs.
Finding Strength in the Journey
Coping with blood cancer can be overwhelming—physically, emotionally, and financially. But you’re not alone.
CancerRounds is always here to support you throughout your treatment journey.
Staying informed and proactive can make a significant difference. Seeking guidance from doctors, joining support groups, and connecting with survivors can provide both practical advice and emotional reassurance. While the road may feel overwhelming at times, small steps—like understanding treatment options, managing finances wisely, and maintaining hope can help move forward in the journey with strength and resilience.
