Lung Cancer Treatment In India

Lung cancer treatment in India refers back to the various medical facilities and treatments to be had for the management and prevention of lung cancer inside the country. Lung cancer is an extreme and regularly existence-threatening disease characterized by the out-of-control growth of strange cells within the lungs. In India, as in many other nations, lung cancer is a main health problem, with some cases diagnosed every 12 months. Lung cancer is expected to cause approximately 2 million deaths within a year. The average cost of lung cancer treatment In India is ranges between $3000 to $8000.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 238,340 people (117,550 men and 120,790 women) will be diagnosed with lung cancer, and 127,070 people will die from the disease in 2023. In India, it is 70,275. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, responsible for about 85% of cases in the United States. NSCLC accounts for approximately 85% of all lung cancer cases, while SCLC comprises about 10-15%.

What is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lungs. It occurs when cells in the lungs undergo abnormal changes and begin to grow and divide uncontrollably, forming tumors. These tumors can interfere with the normal functioning of the lungs, affecting breathing and the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide and is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths.

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, but non-smokers can also develop the disease due to factors such as exposure to secondhand smoke, environmental pollutants, and genetic predisposition. Symptoms of lung cancer may include persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.

There are two main types of lung cancer:

Lung cancer treatment is a significant health concern globally, including in India. In India, lung cancer is one of the most common Lung Cancer Treatment In India among men and the third most common among women. Several factors contribute to the prevalence of lung cancer in India, including high rates of tobacco smoking, exposure to environmental pollutants, and indoor air pollution due to biomass fuel use for cooking in rural areas.

There are several types of lung cancer, classified based on the type of cells in which the cancer originates.

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

• Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for about 85% of all lung cancer cases. It’s a heterogeneous group of lung cancers that differ in their histology, molecular characteristics, and clinical behavior.

• NSCLC usually grows and spreads more slowly than small-cell lung cancer (SCLC). Furthermore, it is divided into subtypes, mainly adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.

• Symptoms of NSCLC may include persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, fatigue, unintended weight loss, and recurring respiratory infections.

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC)

• Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a type of lung cancer that typically grows and spreads more rapidly than non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It accounts for about 10-15% of all lung cancer cases and is often associated with a history of smoking.

• SCLC is characterized by small, oat-shaped cancer cells that multiply quickly and grow to form large tumors in the lungs. Due to its aggressive nature, SCLC is often diagnosed at more advanced stages when it has already spread to other parts of the body.

• Symptoms of small cell lung cancer may include persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss, similar to those of NSCLC. However, because SCLC tends to grow rapidly, symptoms may appear more suddenly and progress more rapidly.

Types of Lung Cancer Treatments

Lung cancer treatment varies depending on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Here are the main types of treatments used:

• Surgery:
  • Purpose: Surgery aims to remove the tumor and, in some cases, surrounding tissue or part of the lung. Common surgical options include:
    • Lobectomy: Removing one lobe of the lung.
    • Pneumonectomy: Removing an entire lung.
    • Wedge Resection: Removing a small section of the lung containing the tumor.
  • When Used: Typically used for localized lung cancer that has not spread.
• Chemotherapy:
  • Purpose: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It can shrink tumors before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) or kill remaining cancer cells after surgery (adjuvant therapy).
  • Administration: Drugs can be administered orally or intravenously.
• Radiation Therapy:
  • Purpose: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams, such as X-rays, to target and destroy cancer cells. It is often used when surgery isn’t possible or in combination with surgery and chemotherapy.
  • Types: External beam radiation delivers radiation from outside the body, while internal radiation (brachytherapy) involves placing a radioactive source inside or near the tumor.
• Targeted Therapy:
  • Purpose: Targeted therapy drugs specifically target cancer cells by interfering with molecules involved in cancer cell growth and survival. This therapy is used for cancers with specific genetic mutations.
  • Examples: Drugs that target specific proteins or pathways involved in cancer growth.
• Immunotherapy:
  • Purpose: Immunotherapy helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. It is used for certain types of lung cancer, particularly those with specific biomarkers.
  • Mechanism: It can involve checkpoint inhibitors that help the immune system overcome cancer’s defenses.

Causes of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is often caused by a combination of genetic factors and exposure to substances that are harmful to the lungs. 

• Smoking: The biggest cause of lung cancer is smoking. Cigarettes contain harmful chemicals that can damage lung cells and lead to cancer. Both smoking regularly and exposure to secondhand smoke can increase your risk.
• Radon Gas: Radon is a natural gas that comes from the ground. It can build up in homes, especially in areas with poor ventilation. Breathing in radon over a long time can increase the risk of lung cancer.
• Asbestos Exposure: Asbestos is a material that was commonly used in construction and other industries in the past. If asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can damage the lungs and lead to cancer. People who worked in industries where asbestos was used are at higher risk.
• Air Pollution: Breathing in polluted air, especially in heavily industrialized areas or cities with high traffic, can increase the risk of lung cancer. Pollution contains harmful particles that can affect lung health over time.
• Genetic Factors: If one have close family members who had lung cancer, you might be at a higher risk of developing it yourself. Genetics can play a role in how susceptible you are to the disease.
• Diet and Lifestyle Factors: While not as significant as smoking or environmental exposures, certain dietary factors (such as a diet low in fruits and vegetables) and lifestyle choices (such as lack of exercise) may play a role in increasing the risk of lung cancer.850

Symptoms of Lung Cancer

The symptoms of lung cancer can vary depending on the type of lung cancer, its location within the lungs, and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.

• Constant Cough: A cough that doesn’t go away or worsens over time is a common symptom of lung cancer. It may produce blood or sputum (phlegm).
• Shortness of Breath: Lung cancer can cause shortness of breath, wheezing, or difficulty breathing, particularly with physical activity or exertion.
• Chest Pain: Chest pain that is persistent and worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or laughing may be a symptom of lung cancer. The pain may be dull, aching, or sharp.
• Hoarseness: Lung cancer can affect the nerves that control the vocal cords, leading to hoarseness or changes in voice.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant and unexplained weight loss without changes in diet or exercise habits may be a symptom of advanced lung cancer.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak, even after adequate rest, can be a symptom of lung cancer, especially as the disease progresses.
• Loss of Appetite: Lung cancer can cause a loss of appetite, leading to unintentional weight loss.
• Coughing Up Blood:  It is also known as hemoptysis, coughing up blood can be a symptom of lung cancer, though it can also be caused by other conditions.
• Wheezing: Wheezing or a whistling sound when breathing can occur if lung cancer blocks or narrows an airway.
• Repeated Respiratory Infections: Lung cancer can make a person more susceptible to respiratory infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

Cost of Lung Cancer Treatment in India

The cost of lung cancer treatment in India can vary depending on several factors. Including the stage of cancer, the type of treatment required, the hospital or healthcare facility chosen, and any additional medical complications. Generally, treatment options for lung cancer may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or a combination of these approaches.

Here’s a cost comparison chart for different types of lung cancer treatments in India compared to other countries. The chart includes typical costs for treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

Lung Cancer Treatment Cost Comparison

Treatment Type	India (USD)	United States (USD)	United Kingdom (USD)	Australia (USD)	Singapore (USD)
Chemotherapy	$1,500 – $3,000	$10,000 – $30,000	$8,000 – $15,000	$7,000 – $12,000	$5,000 – $10,000
Radiation Therapy	$2,000 – $4,000	$15,000 – $40,000	$12,000 – $20,000	$10,000 – $18,000	$8,000 – $12,000
Targeted Therapy	$4,000 – $8,000	$30,000 – $60,000	$25,000 – $40,000	$20,000 – $35,000	$15,000 – $25,000
Immunotherapy	$6,000 – $12,000	$50,000 – $100,000	$40,000 – $70,000	$35,000 – $60,000	$25,000 – $40,000

Factors affecting the cost of Lung Cancer Treatment in India

Several factors can influence the cost of lung cancer treatment in India:

• Stage of Cancer: The stage at which lung cancer is diagnosed significantly impacts treatment costs. Early-stage cancer may require less intensive treatment compared to advanced-stage cancer. Which often necessitates more extensive therapies such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation.
• Type of Treatment: The specific treatment modalities employed, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy, can vary in cost. Some treatments, like targeted therapy and immunotherapy, tend to be more expensive due to their specialized nature and the use of advanced drugs.
• Hospital or Healthcare Facility: The choice of hospital or healthcare facility can also influence treatment costs of lung cancer treatment in India. Private hospitals and specialized cancer centers may charge higher fees compared to public hospitals. but they may offer more advanced treatment options and amenities.
• Medical Professionals’ Fees: The fees of oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other medical professionals involved in the treatment process contribute to the overall cost. Highly experienced specialists may charge higher consultation and procedural fees.
• Diagnostic Tests and Imaging: Diagnostic procedures, including biopsies, CT scans, PET scans, and MRI scans, are essential for diagnosing and staging lung cancer. The frequency and type of diagnostic tests required can impact treatment expenses.
• Medication Costs: The cost of medications, including chemotherapy drugs, targeted therapy agents, immunotherapy drugs, pain management medications, and supportive care drugs, can significantly contribute to the overall treatment cost.
• Duration and Complexity of Treatment: The duration and complexity of treatment influence costs. Longer treatment durations, multiple cycles of chemotherapy or radiation therapy, and complex surgical procedures can increase expenses.
• Additional Medical Services: Patients may require additional medical services such as rehabilitation, palliative care, nutritional support, or psychological counseling, which can add to the overall cost of lung cancer treatment in India.
• Geographical Location: Treatment costs can vary across different regions of India due to differences in healthcare infrastructure, availability of medical facilities, and cost of living.
• Insurance Coverage and Financial Assistance: The extent of insurance coverage and availability of financial assistance programs can mitigate treatment costs for patients. Those with comprehensive health insurance plans or access to government-sponsored healthcare schemes may have lower out-of-pocket expenses. 

Lung Cancer Treatment Procedure In India

Lung cancer treatment is typically a multi-step process tailored to the type and stage of cancer. Here’s a straightforward breakdown of the procedure:

• Diagnosis:
  • Initial Evaluation: The process of lung cancer treatment begins with a thorough evaluation by a doctor, including a review of medical history and physical examination.
  • Tests and Scans: To confirm the diagnosis, doctors use imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or PET scans to identify tumors. A biopsy is often performed to collect a sample of lung tissue for analysis to determine the type of cancer.
• Staging:
  • Assessing Extent: Staging helps determine the size of the tumor and whether it has spread to other parts of the body. This involves additional scans and tests to assess the spread of cancer.
• Treatment Plan:
  • Personalized Plan: Based on the type, stage, and location of the lung cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health, doctors create a personalized treatment plan. This may involve one or more of the following:
• Surgery:
  • Removing Tumor: If the cancer is localized, surgery may be performed to remove the tumor and possibly part of the lung. Types of surgery include lobectomy (removing a lobe), pneumonectomy (removing an entire lung), or wedge resection (removing a small section).
• Chemotherapy:
  • Systemic Treatment: This involves using drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Chemotherapy can be administered before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink the tumor or after surgery (adjuvant) to kill remaining cells.
• Radiation Therapy:
  • Targeted Treatment: Radiation uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It’s often used when surgery isn’t possible or to complement surgery.
• Targeted Therapy:
  • Precision Medicine: This treatment targets specific molecules involved in cancer growth. It is used for cancers with specific genetic mutations.
• Immunotherapy:
  • Boosting Immune System: Immunotherapy helps the immune system recognize and fight cancer cells. It is used for certain types of lung cancer.
• Follow-Up Care:
  • Ongoing Monitoring: After initial treatment, regular follow-ups with scans and tests are essential to monitor recovery, manage side effects, and check for recurrence.

Conclusion

India offers a comprehensive range of advanced treatment options for lung cancer, backed by state-of-the-art facilities and experienced medical professionals. From surgery to radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, patients have access to personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs. Additionally, the affordability of treatment in India makes it an attractive option for patients seeking high-quality care at a fraction of the cost compared to many Western countries. With ongoing advancements in medical technology and research, the landscape of lung cancer treatment in India continues to evolve, offering hope and improved outcomes for patients battling this challenging disease.

FAQ’s – Frequently Asked Questions

Can stage 4 lung cancer be cured?

tage 4 lung cancer, where cancer has spread to other parts of the body, generally cannot be cured. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life through methods like chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. While a cure is unlikely, these treatments can help manage the disease.

Can lung cancer be 100% cured?

Lung cancer cannot always be 100% cured, especially if diagnosed at an advanced stage. Early-stage lung cancer has a higher chance of being treated successfully, but even then, there is no guarantee of a complete cure. Treatments aim to control and manage the disease while improving quality of life.

Which hospital is best for lung cancer treatment in India?

Top hospitals for lung cancer treatment in India include Apollo Hospital, Medanta, and Tata Memorial Hospital. These institutions are renowned for their advanced technology, experienced specialists, and comprehensive care. Choosing the best hospital depends on individual needs and consultations with healthcare professionals.