Introduction:
Breast cancer isn’t just a diagnosis; it’s a journey. For women and families throughout India, this journey is usually impacted not only by the emotional and physical impact but also by cost. Understanding the costs associated with breast cancer treatment in India can help you plan and make the best choices for your care.
What Is Breast Cancer, and Why Does It Happen?
In breast tissue, cells can grow out of control. Breast cancer can develop from genetic changes, hormonal changes, behavior, obesity, alcohol use, or long-term hormone therapies. Early detection may enable effective and less expensive treatment.
Breast Cancer in India: Key Statistics
- Frequency: Over 1.5 lakh new cases are detected each year in India.
- Age Group: The highest age group affected is 40-60 years in women.
- Survival Rates: If caught early, up to 80% of patients will survive.
- Government vs. Private: Private services, generally faster, have higher costs.
Government hospitals have longer waiting times, but some may be cheaper or free.
Must Read: Is Stage 2 Breast Cancer Curable
Diagnosis Tests & Costs in India:
There are many tests for the first diagnosis. Below are average expected costs:
- Separate breast examination, ₹1,000–₹2,500
- Ultrasound between 800 and 2,000
- Biopsy is ₹3,000 to ₹8,000.
- Radiography is between ₹5,000 and ₹10,000.
- A PET scan costs between 20,000 and 30,000.
Early diagnosis fails to account for total costs by capturing cancer in a non-aggressive way.
Breast Cancer Treatment Costs in Major Indian Cities:
| City | Approx. Treatment Cost (Total) |
| Mumbai | ₹4 lakhs to ₹10 lakhs |
| Delhi | ₹3.5 lakhs to ₹8 lakhs |
| Bangalore | ₹3 lakhs to ₹7 lakhs |
| Hyderabad | ₹2.5 lakhs to ₹6 lakhs |
| Chennai | ₹2.5 lakhs to ₹6 lakhs |
| Kolkata | ₹2 lakhs to ₹5 lakhs |
Treatment Options & Costs in India
- Surgery (Lumpectomy/Mastectomy): ₹70,000–₹2 lakhs
- Chemotherapy (6–8 cycles): ₹50,000–₹2 lakhs
- Radiation Therapy: ₹1.5–₹3 lakhs
- Hormone Therapy: ₹20,000–₹50,000 annually
- Targeted Therapy (e.g., Herceptin): ₹75,000+ per dose
Must Read: If Biopsy is Negative Can It Still Be Cancer
Stage-Wise Breast Cancer Treatment Cost:
- Stage 1: ₹2–₹4 lakhs
- Stage 2: ₹3–₹6 lakhs
- Stage 3: ₹5–₹8 lakhs
- Stage 4: ₹7 lakhs+ (including long-term therapy)
Costs increase with the stage due to intensive care and multiple treatment modalities.
Factors Affecting Treatment Cost:
- Stage at diagnosis
- Choice of hospital (government vs. private)
- City
- Treatment type and frequency
- Medication type (generic vs. branded)
- Insurance coverage
Top Hospitals for Breast Cancer in India:
- Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai
- AIIMS, Delhi
- Apollo Hospitals, multiple cities
- Fortis Hospitals
- Max Healthcare
- Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute, Delhi
Many of these hospitals are also global and patient-focused.
India vs. Other Countries: Cost Comparison
- India: ₹2 to ₹10 lakhs
- USA: ₹25–₹40 lakhs
- UK: ₹20–₹30 lakhs
- Thailand: ₹8–₹15 lakhs
India delivers quality healthcare at a fraction of the global costs located in the medical tourism hub.
Tips to Reduce Treatment Costs
✅ Select a well-known government hospital.
✅ Get a second opinion to reduce wastage on tests or treatments.
✅ Register for Ayushman Bharat or state-level schemes.
✅ Reach out to NGOs such as CanSupport, the Indian Cancer Society, or YouWeCan.
✅ Ask your doctor for generic replacements.
✅ Search for medical loans or hospital EMI facilities.
Conclusion
Breast cancer can be treated very well, especially when it is caught early. Treatment in India is more affordable than in many countries, but the cost can still be staggering. With the right choices, timely assistance, and knowing that there is financial assistance available, a patient’s focus can be more on healing rather than on the expense.
FAQ:
Q1. Is breast cancer treatment covered under insurance in India?
Most private and government health insurance policies cover partial or full treatment.
Q2. Is there free breast cancer treatment available in India?
Yes, through government schemes, charitable hospitals, or NGOs.
Q3. How many cycles of chemotherapy are needed?
Generally, 6-8 cycles, depending on the stage and type of cancer.
Q4. Can international patients get treated in India?
Yes, many hospitals offer medical visa assistance and international patient services.
