Stomach Cancer Treatment Cost

Stomach cancer, also termed as gastric cancer, begins in the cells lining the stomach. It generally develops when the cells in the stomach start to grow and divide in an uncontrolled manner.

Depending on the originating location in the body, there are various types of stomach cancers, and adenocarcinoma is the most common among them.  The risk of developing stomach cancer is comparatively higher in older people and men than in women.

Gastric cancer is the 5th leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. It is more prevalent in East Asia, South and Central America, and Eastern Europe.

Chronic atrophic gastritis, chronic H. pylori infections, pernicious anaemia, and gastroesophageal reflux diseases are some of the medical conditions that pose a risk of stomach cancer. Although there is no apparent risk factor associated with this type of cancer, some other probable risk factors include genetic and family history, tobacco use, diet, and occupational exposures. Stomach cancer treatment cost can vary depending on the stage of the disease and the type of treatment required.

How Much Does Stomach Cancer Treatment Cost in India?

The average stomach cancer treatment cost in India ranges between ₹2,00,000 and ₹6,00,000, depending on the stage of the cancer and the type of treatment required. This estimated cost of stomach cancer treatment includes consultation charges, medications, diagnostic tests, surgery costs, etc. The following table mentions the cost of stomach cancer in some cities across India:

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Stomach Cancer Treatment Cost in Top Indian Hospitals

Complete Cost Analysis of Stomach Cancer Treatment in India

Pre-treatment and post-treatment expenses for stomach cancer in India vary among patients, generally depending on their age, medical history, stomach cancer type, tumour size, required diagnostic tests, associated medical procedures, frequency of therapy sessions, and healthcare facility.

Below is an estimated breakdown of the potential cost involved in the complete treatment of stomach cancer:

This estimated cost does not include travel, accommodation, meals, hospital stay charges, visa fees for foreign travel, post-treatment advanced care, and complications.

It is important to note that the cost of stomach cancer treatment largely varies depending on the therapies performed and the drugs used. The type of therapy, combination of therapies, and number of sessions are solely based on the patient’s condition. Primary treatment options for stomach cancer are chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and surgery.

The cost of chemotherapy for stomach cancer is around ₹ 20,000 per session and the patient typically undergoes 6-10 sessions of chemotherapy.

Another is Radiation therapy, which costs around ₹4,000 per session; generally, a patient requires 15-20 sessions.

Then comes the targeted therapy. The cost per injection for targeted therapy is around ₹ 50,000. Patients require multiple injections, which are usually administered once a month.

The immunotherapy injection is given in several doses over weeks or months, and the average cost per injection is ₹ 1,50,000.

In early cases of cancer, endoscopic therapy may work. The cost depends on the procedure and ranges between ₹ 25,000 to ₹ 1,00,000.

Overview of Stomach Cancer Treatment Cost Around the World

A general overview of the treatment cost of stomach cancer around the world is mentioned in the table below:

It is highly advised to check the current currency exchange when travelling to any other country for treatment.

Factors Affecting Stomach Cancer Treatment Costs in India

Various factors, such as cancer stage, medical history, patient’s age, type of surgical procedures, type of hospital and location, determine the cost of stomach cancer in India.

The following are the key factors that affect stomach cancer treatment costs in India:

• Stage of Cancer: It is crucial to diagnose the cancer stage to determine the appropriate treatment approach. The cost of treatment increases at a higher rate with each successive stage, and the frequency of sessions also increases.
• Treatment Plan: It varies depending on the complexity of the patient’s case. In the case of a localised tumour, the treatment plan involves surgery and chemotherapy, whereas as the complexity increases, other therapies are added to the treatment plan, increasing the total expense.
• Type of Hospital: Private hospitals are much more expensive than public hospitals. Government health schemes and funding provide significant financial assistance in the case of public and trust hospitals.
• Choice of Doctor: The choice of doctor impacts the treatment cost significantly. It is observed that the more experienced surgeons and oncologists charge high consultation charges and surgical fees, but they may offer better outcomes due to their expertise.
• Geographic Location: Metropolitan areas and famous tourist medical centres tend to cost much more than other cities. The cost of living, consultations, and hospital charges are also pretty high in metropolitan areas, which significantly adds to the treatment cost.
• Duration of Treatment: It is decided based on the patient’s condition, tumour size, and treatment plan. Sometimes, patients require extra care/palliative care, which leads to a longer stay, which directly impacts the overall treatment cost.
• Complications: Unforeseen complications can include delayed recovery, infections, therapy side effects, GI bleeding, etc. In these cases, it becomes necessary to extend the hospital stay, and undergo additional treatments, all of which add to the total cost of the treatment.
• Specific Medications: Brand-name drugs, especially chemotherapy drugs, are significantly more expensive than generic medicines. Choosing generic medicine reduces the overall treatment cost, although the efficacy is generally similar.
• Supportive Care: Psychological support, nutritional counselling, and physical therapy fall into this category. Although this improves the quality of life, it also adds to the overall expense.

Why is the Stomach Cancer Treatment Cost in India Different from Other Countries?

There are several factors contributing to the difference in stomach cancer treatment cost in India as compared to other countries:

• Lower Costs: The world-class medical amenities and treatment are available at a cost-effective structure/plan leading to a significant cost difference between India and other countries, making cancer care even of advanced level more accessible for both domestic and international patients.
• Generic Medicines: India is known for producing generic medicines that are offered at a far lower price than branded ones without sacrificing their efficacy. The extensive use of generic medicines lowers the overall cost of treatment.
• Government Initiatives: The Indian government has introduced several health programs such as Ayushman Bharat Yojana, which provides health insurance coverage for economically disadvantaged people. This program greatly reduces the financial burden on patients.
• Medical Tourism: India is now among the preferred destinations for medical tourists, drawing in patients from all over the world. Indian hospitals are a convenient and affordable option for people from abroad because they provide packages that cover everything from surgery and medication to lodging and treatment costs.
• Efficient Healthcare System: In India, treatment regimens are meticulously made to ensure patient recovery and appropriate resource utilisation. Also, medical staff undergo extensive training to deliver quality care.
• Use of Technology and Telemedicine: India has quickly embraced cutting-edge medical procedures and technologies that enable more effective diagnosis, consultation, and post-operative care. International partnerships and global health networks facilitates adopting the newest cancer treatment techniques and technologies feasible.

Why is India the Best Destination for Stomach Cancer Treatment?

It can be intimidating to navigate the world of stomach cancer therapy, particularly when the financial component is involved. Treatment for a chronic disease is financially burdensome for the patient, so they often seek alternate options that offer high-quality care at a lower cost. Here are the key reasons why India stands out for stomach cancer treatment:

• Advanced yet Affordable Medical Infrastructure: Despite state-of-the-art procedures and technologies, the operational costs and administrative expenses of healthcare facilities in India are comparatively lower than those of many other developed countries that offer stomach cancer treatments. Accreditation from international organisations such as NABH, makes India a prominent choice for cancer treatment.
• Experienced Doctors and Team: India is home to some of the world’s best oncologists and cancer treatment specialists. The combination of real case experiences with international training makes the surgeons and oncologists meet and surpass international medical standards.
• Specialised Cancer Centres and Advanced Technology: In India, patients can receive comprehensive stomach cancer treatment at the specialised cancer hospitals and centres, such as Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai, AIIMS New Delhi, and the National Cancer Institute in Jhajjar to name a few. These medical facilities have access to advanced technologies like proton therapy, robotic surgery, and targeted therapies, which allow the precise cancer patient care.
• Quality of Care: India has made significant strides in ensuring that its medical services meet global expectations. There is a focus on patient-centric care, with personalised treatment plans designed for each individual’s unique needs.
• Accessibility: Medical care in India is highly accessible in terms of location and cost. Major cities in India have world-class hospitals and cancer centers, making it easier for both domestic and international patients to get specialised care near their location. With easy services like airport pickups, translation aid, visa assistance, and post-treatment care packages, India’s medical tourism industry facilitates the treatment process for patients from foreign countries.

Does Insurance Cover Stomach Cancer Treatment in India?

Yes, Insurance covers stomach cancer treatment in India.

Considering stomach cancer treatment in India, Insurance policies typically cover hospitalisation, chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and specialist consultations, but it completely depends on the type of insurance a patient has. The health insurance policy determines whether you are covered for stomach cancer treatment in India or not. It is crucial to review the policy’s terms and conditions and also check the waiting periods and exclusions for particular illnesses.

Additionally, some policies may cover post-treatment care, and medications. In some upgraded policies, advanced treatment options like immunotherapy might also be reimbursed.

However, certain conditions might affect the coverage. For instance, the insurance might not cover preexisting conditions or come with a waiting period. Some policies may have a cap on the total sum assured or restrict coverage to specific types of treatments or hospitals. To ensure comprehensive coverage, individuals should verify their policy’s details before undergoing treatment. Cancer-specific insurance policies often offer more extensive coverage, including advanced therapies and cashless hospitalisation at network hospitals.

Overall, stomach cancer treatment is primarily covered by health insurance in India, but it is crucial to understand the policy’s specifics and inclusions/exclusions to avoid any financial surprises.

How Can Cancer Rounds Help You?

Cancer rounds act as a virtual mediator between cancer patients worldwide and the best oncologists in India. It also helps in getting affordable treatment at the best hospitals in India. It provides high-class facilities such as virtual consultation from renowned doctors, appointments with cancer experts at the right hospital, visa assistance, and many more. You must post a query and expect a call from our team within 24 hours. Cancer rounds will fulfill all your needs for cancer treatment in India. Offer services such as:

• Connecting patients with reputable hospitals and doctors.
• Providing cost estimates and financial planning assistance.
• Arranging travel and accommodation.
• Providing translation and interpretation services.
• Offering emotional support and counseling.

 FAQs

Q.1 Can stomach cancer be cured in India?

Yes, stomach cancer can be effectively treated and managed in India although it largely depends on the patient’s health conditon and cancer stage. Early diagnosis and proper treatment significantly improve the chances of a successful cure.

Q.2 What is the first test for stomach cancer?

The first and primary test done for stomach cancer is typically an endoscopy, also called esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD. If suspicious areas are found, a biopsy may be done for further analysis.

Q.3 What is the cost of Stage 1 cancer treatment in India?

The average cost of stage 1 cancer treatment in India ranges between Rs. 2,00,000 to Rs. 3,75,000.

Q.4 Is chemo covered by insurance?

Yes, chemotherapy is typically covered under health insurance but under comprehensive plans that include cancer treatment.

Q.5 Is stage 1 stomach cancer curable?

Stage 1 stomach cancer is often considered curable if diagnosed and treated early because, at this stage, the tumor is localised. It is generally treated via surgery and chemotherapy.