Chemotherapy Cost in India

What is Chemotherapy?

Cancer is one of the most talked about medical subjects today. Around 1.4 million new cancer cases have been recorded in 2023. Unfortunately, it is also one of the leading reasons for deaths in India. In 2025, it shows a projected increase of around 12.5%. So far, chemotherapy has been one of the most effective techniques for treating cancers. It is no less than a boon for enhancing the life expectancy of cancer patients. In this procedure, powerful chemotherapeutic drugs are used to kill cancerous cells developing inside your body. Several drugs are listed under this category. While this is an effective treatment, it is not devoid of side effects. In this page, we will discuss the costs of chemotherapy in India.

Chemotherapy Cost in India At a Glance

The chemotherapy cost in India varies widely between INR 40,000 to INR  1,50,000 per session. It all depends on what type of chemotherapy you want to undergo, the hospital you wish to choose, and your specific medical condition. It is better to go ahead with the government hospital if you think you will run short of money.

The chemotherapy cost in India can broadly be categorized into the following approximate ranges:

• Minimum Cost: 4,000 INR to 10,000 INR per cycle (about 47 – 118 USD)
• Average Cost: 11,000 INR to 39,000 INR (about 129 – 460 USD)
• Maximum Cost: 40,000 INR to 1,50,000 INR (about 470 – 1760 USD)

Your chemotherapy treatment cost in India varies significantly according to several factors. Let’s explore some of the key ones.

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Types of Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is of 4 main types:

• Adjuvant Therapy
• Curative Therapy
• Neoadjuvant Therapy
• Palliative Therapy

The choice of chemotherapeutic treatment depends on a multidisciplinary approach. Both individual patient factors and cancer characteristics significantly impact this selection. Your doctor will collaboratively take this call depending on the type and stage of your cancer. They will also consider your overall health, side effects of the chosen type, and personal preference.

How Chemotherapy Works In The Body?

Chemotherapy drugs are administered through injection, oral in case of pills or liquid drugs. Because it circulates throughout the body in the bloodstream, it can treat cancer anywhere in the body. After administration, it starts shrinking the tumor cell that makes it smaller and easy to remove. It is working in different ways to kill cancer cells by attacking DNA cancerous cells, reducing its growth, and suppressing tumor size.

Other drugs that bind to the DNA and stop the unwinding process, which forms new identical copies. In the end, it directly attacks RNA and DNA to discontinue the growth of the tumor cell.

Are You Eligible For Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is not recommended for every individual. Your surgeon will only recommend it to you if your cancer is spreading or likely to spread to other parts of your body. Mostly, the job will be done by surgery. If not, your doctor may ask you to undergo chemotherapy sessions before or after surgery. Sometimes, your doctor may even recommend it if you deal with other medical issues, such as bone marrow and autoimmune disorders.

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You are most likely the right candidate for chemotherapy if you are on:

1. Cancer treatment
2. Managing cancer symptoms
3. Pre and post-surgery
4. Preparing for other treatments
5. Bone marrow and autoimmune disorders

Before you make any decision, always speak with your doctor first. They are your best guide to help you understand your treatment choice and the chemotherapy price in India.

Factors Affecting Chemotherapy Costs in India

Several factors add up to the cost of chemotherapy in India. This addition includes the type of your cancer and its stage, the specific chemotherapy drug used, the location and type of the hospital, and your overall treatment regime. Here is a brief of factors influencing your chemotherapy price in India:

• Drug Price: Your cost of chemotherapy in India varies according to the type of drug you choose. Generic drugs usually cost you less than branded ones.
• Dosage and Combination: Your chemotherapy cost per cycle also depends on the dosage and combination of the chemotherapeutic drug.
• Treatment Duration: Your chemotherapy price is also influenced significantly by the number of chemotherapy cycles you undergo.
• Hospitalization Expenses: The charges at government hospitals are much lower than the chemotherapy costs at private hospitals.
• Doctor’s Fees: A specialist oncologist will charge you more according to his area of expertise and his years of experience in the field.
• Other Factors: Other factors influencing the cost of chemotherapy per cycle include the geographical location of your hospital, insurance coverages, and government policies you avail.

Chemotherapy Cost in Top Indian Hospitals

Below is the list of hospital-wise distribution of chemotherapy costs in India

The above tabulation lists the cost of chemotherapy per cycle in India across its top 10 hospitals. From the affordability perspective, AIIMS, Delhi, is the most affordable hospital for cancer treatment, followed by Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Hospital.

Additional Expenses: Chemotherapy Cost in India

The additional chemotherapy price in India varies widely from one hospital to another. Beyond the hospital charges, there are more add-ons. Some of your extra expenses around chemotherapy costs in India may include the following:

• Diagnosis Cost : Diagnostic tests for chemotherapy include scans, blood tests, and biopsies. Each test may cost around 4000 to 5000 INR (47 – 59 USD).
• Travel and Accommodation : Several patients travel from rural to urban areas in search of better and more advanced facilities and treatments. Your additional expenses may include travel and accommodation for you and your attendant.
• Follow Up Consultations : Consultation fees per session range between 3000 to 5000 INR (35 – 59 USD)
• Nutritional Diets : As a cancer patient, you need to maintain your body on a healthy diet regime. Your doctor recommends dietary alterations and nutritional supplements to support your chemotherapy treatment. These additional supplements and supportive care may add to the cost of chemotherapy in India.

Unexpected Complications

Your body’s response to chemotherapy sessions depends on how well it accepts the chemotherapeutic drug being administered. Any unexpected complication may add further to your chemotherapy cost in India, requiring a prolonged hospital stay and treatment.

Insurance Coverage and Financing

You can check with your insurance service provider whether your purchased insurance policy covers chemotherapy treatment. In India, most insurance service providers offer comprehensive coverage for chemotherapy treatments. If not, you can even check for government schemes or support from non-profit organizations.

Tips to Reduce Average Cost of Chemotherapy Per Cycle in India

Chemotherapy sessions sound like expensive medical procedures for many. However, there are several ways in which you can significantly reduce your chemotherapy price in India. Here are some practical tips for reducing it:

• Government hospitals offer affordable chemotherapy prices in India. You can even take advantage of government-funded initiatives to receive chemotherapy and radiation therapy sessions at lower prices.
• There are several health insurance plans available for you. These insurance plans are the best ways to mitigate the impact of chemotherapy sessions on your financial income.
• The Ayushman Bharat Health Scheme is a government-funded program for economically disadvantaged individuals. Eligible beneficiaries can enjoy great benefits under this scheme.
• There are NGOs operating across India to support chemotherapy and cancer treatments for an economically challenged section of society.

FAQs – Chemotherapy Cost in India

Q.1 How much does chemotherapy cost in India?

– Chemotherapy starts from Rs. 40,000 for a day care old generation drugs such as paclitaxel combinations and it can cost a patient up to Rs. 1,50,000.

Q.2 What makes chemotherapy expensive?

– Chemotherapy costs vary mainly due to the type of drugs (branded vs generic), how often treatment is needed, hospital charges, and whether other therapies like radiation or surgery are also required. Some newer cancer drugs, especially targeted therapies, can be more costly.

Q.3 How many chemotherapy cycles will I need?

– The number of cycles depends on your type of cancer, stage, and how well you respond to the treatment. It could range from a few cycles to several rounds over months. Your oncologist will guide you with a plan tailored to your condition.

Q.4 Does health insurance cover chemotherapy costs in India?

– Many health insurance policies in India cover chemotherapy treatments. However, coverage can vary based on the policy terms. It’s essential to review your insurance plan and consult with your provider to understand the extent of coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses.

Q.5 Can international patients access chemotherapy treatment in India?

– Yes, many hospitals in India offer services tailored for international patients, including medical visa assistance, accommodation arrangements, and dedicated patient coordinators to ensure a smooth treatment journey.