Cost of Chemotherapy in India

What is chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is a very commonly used form of cancer treatment. It uses certain drugs that kill the fast-growing cancer cells in your body and stop them from multiplying and spreading all over. Although the process of cell division and multiplication is quite normal in the body when the body has cancer cells in it this process becomes much faster and the cancer cells do not die like normal cells. This is where chemotherapy comes in, as it stops the cancer cells from spreading.

What is the Cost of Chemotherapy in India?

The average chemotherapy starting cost in India is around INR 10000 but can vary according to multiple factors including the type of cancer.

What is the Cost Breakdown of Chemotherapy in India?

Before you proceed with chemotherapy there are multiple tests that need to be done. Here we have listed the cost estimate for those tests.

• Physical examination: INR 300 to INR 500
• Blood tests: INR 2000 to INR 5000
• Tissue biopsy: INR 4000 to INR 5000
• FNAC/ Fine needle aspiration cytology: INR 1000 to INR 4000

What are Some Factors that can Affect the Chemotherapy cost in India?

Multiple factors can affect the chemotherapy cost in India, such as

• Type of cancer
• Size and location of cancer
• Medical oncologist’s fee
• Hospital fee
• Cost of diagnostic tests
• Number of sessions needed

Is Chemotherapy Covered under Insurance in India?

Yes, all the renowned insurance companies in Chennai cover chemotherapy. But you should consult your insurance company to make sure they cover that specific hospital or doctor. Also, confirm with them if they cover limited sessions or the complete duration.

What are Some Things to Remember After a Chemotherapy Session?

You may feel exhausted after a chemotherapy session. The medical oncologist can prescribe some painkillers for your ease. Here are some things that you should keep in mind,

• Eat protein-rich foods to maintain a healthy weight throughout the sessions.
• Take added multivitamin supplements to battle fatigue and tiredness.
• Avoid salty foods and red meat during your chemotherapy.
• Do not expose yourself to sunlight or UV rays for a long period after chemo.
• Make sure to always use sunscreen with high SPF whenever you go out.
• Make sure to quit smoking and alcohol during chemo.