Overview

Breast cancer cases continue to rise globally, posing a significant health concern. Lifestyle changes, ageing populations, hormonal influences, and increased awareness contribute to the growing numbers. Early detection through regular screenings, improved treatments, and public education is crucial in combating this pervasive disease and saving lives. Breast cancer treatment costs in India are very low compared to countries worldwide.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the breast cells. It typically starts in the milk ducts or the lobules, which are milk-producing glands. Breast cancer can present as a lump or thickening in the breast, changes in breast shape or size, nipple abnormalities, or other symptoms. Early detection, through self-exams and regular mammograms, along with advancements in treatment options, can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with breast cancer.

It is a common form of cancer in 1 in 3 women suffering from a form of cancer. The cancer may severely damage the internal system if not treated on time. The cost of the treatment in India is much lower compared to other countries. People worldwide prefer to get their conditions treated in India due to less cost, perfect medical facilities, and high-tech machines.

Who is at risk of breast cancer?

Breast cancer is not infectious and can not spread by touching or exchanging liquid fluids. Situations such as obesity, family history of the disease, excessive use of alcohol, and many similar conditions may increase the chances of a female getting affected by the disease. Even controlling the mentioned risk habits can lower the disease by up to 30% but cannot eliminate it. The female gender is one of the most significant risks of breast cancer. Mutation in genes is also one of the biggest reasons for breast cancer. Changes in BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB-2 genes can cause breast cancer. A previous breast cancer diagnosis or certain non-cancerous breast conditions can increase the risk.

Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

A visible lump in the breast is one of the first signs of breast cancer. The lump can be painless but does need medical attention to avoid further issues. The signs and symptoms also include breast thickening, differences in the size of breasts, unusual leaking from nipples, changing shape and size of nipples, dumpling of breasts, and many similar issues. In case of any of these symptoms, it is advisable to get immediate medical help to identify the cause. Identifying and treating cancer in the initial stages help lower the chances of damage, but procrastination may make the condition severe.

Factors Affecting Breast Treatment Costs in India

- Pre-Treatment Examination and Tests- Doctors prescribe tests before breast cancer treatment to monitor the patient's vital stats. Different imaging tests, such as diagnostic mammography, ultrasound, and MRI, are performed to identify the stage of the spread of cancerous cells. A biopsy helps in tests of the tissue deeply with the help of a microscope. The procedure confirms the form of cancer and its severity. The doctor may recommend different types of biopsies, such as fine needle aspiration biopsy, core needle biopsy, surgical biopsy, and many other forms. A doctor may also suggest a genomic test before the treatment.
- Surgical Procedure and Hospital Charges- Different surgical procedures are necessary for a breast cancer patient. The doctor chooses the most suitable method according to the patient's symptoms. Surgical methods such as mastectomy, lumpectomy, lymph node dissection, and reconstructive breast surgery are some of the surgical procedures that can help to get rid of cancerous breast cells. Hospital charges for the treatment depend on the location of the hospital chosen for the treatment. The charges may also depend on the different types of services and rooms for the patient provided by the hospital.
- Post-Treatment Expenses- There is also a huge queue of expenses after the treatment. Totalling these expenses still makes the breast cancer treatment cost in India an economical option. The post-treatment expenses may include the cost of medications, hospital stay charges, charges for the caretaker's accommodation, charges for the tests after the surgery, and many similar expenditures. A doctor may also recommend radiation therapy or chemotherapy after the surgery to eliminate the cancerous cells from the breast tissue.
- Cost Breakdown of Breast Cancer Treatment in India- The cost of breast cancer treatment in India depends on different factors for each patient. The cost depends on different types of expenses to be incurred, such as admission and oncologist fees, the severity of the condition, vital stats of the patient, type of treatment plan for the patient according to the symptoms, post-treatment care, different types of tests performed for the treatment, and hospital services and facilities provided.
- For more information on the cost of breast cancer treatment in India, contact us at Narayana Healthcare.
- Subsidy or Insurance Coverage for Breast Cancer Treatment in India- Financial assistance by the government of up to 75,000 to 1 25,000 Indian rupees for BPL families for treatment in a government hospital is provided. Different types of insurance companies have different rules covering the medical condition. Some companies may cover only the treatment charges, while others provide complete coverage, including hospital stay and post-surgery test charges.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Breast cancer treatment cost in India is comparatively low compared to countries worldwide. The facilities provided in India for breast cancer surgery include knowledgeable doctors, high-tech machines, experienced staff, and advanced facilities in the hospital.

Reference Links

- https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/creating-awareness-busting-myth-and-facts-of-breast-cancer/
- https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/breast-cancer
- https://www.practo.com/health-wiki/breast-cancer-treatment-india/296/article