What is Blood Cancer Treatment in India?

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Medically Reviewed by Dr. Aman Priya Khanna
Written by Sangeeta Sharma, last updated on 17 July 2023
What is Blood Cancer Treatment in India?

Cancer treatment is a critical aspect when it comes to battling blood cancer, a relentless disease that affects countless individuals worldwide. The impact of this disease on both physical and emotional well-being cannot be underestimated. 

Timely and effective cancer treatment becomes crucial in the fight against blood cancer. Fortunately, India has emerged as a leading destination for blood cancer treatment, offering hope, expertise, and cutting-edge advancements to patients from around the globe. 

Read on to explore the importance of cancer treatment, specifically blood cancer treatment, in India. Focusing on the available treatment options, how to treat it, success rates, and the support systems that empower patients on their journey to recovery.

About Blood Cancer

Blood cancer impacts the body's ability to produce and function properly with blood cells. It typically originates in the bone marrow, the soft and sponge-like tissue found inside the bones. Inside the bone marrow, stem cells develop into red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets.

In an individual, blood cells are essential in fighting infections, transporting oxygen throughout the body, and controlling bleeding. However, blood cancer occurs when there is a disruption in the normal production of blood cells.
This disruption leads to an overgrowth of abnormal blood cells, which can give rise to various medical complications. 

With the timely detection of symptoms and then with the right treatments, one can find the answers on how to treat blood cancer.

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Need for Blood Cancer Diagnosis

Spreading knowledge about the warning signs and symptoms of blood malignancies and urging people to seek medical help if they encounter any lingering or worrisome symptoms is crucial for early and timely diagnosis of the problem. 

In the fight against blood cancer, routine checkups, prompt diagnostic procedures, and early intervention are essential and have a substantial impact on both treatment outcomes and long-term prognosis. Timely diagnosis is essential as it helps in 

  1. Development of an effective treatment plan.

  2. Monitoring the progression of the disease.

  3. Checking the effectiveness of medications.

  4. Early detections lead to a better prognosis.

  5. Timely diagnosis eliminates the chances of higher risks and complications.

  6. Paves the way for a better quality of life.

Blood Cancer Treatment in India

There are several treatment options available for blood cancer, particularly in India—the type of blood cancer, its stage, and your overall health status all influence treatment options. 

  1. Chemotherapy: One of the major methods for blood cancer treatment in India is chemotherapy. It entails employing drugs to kill cancer cells.
    Your doctor may prescribe a combination of drugs that can be taken through the mouth or through injections depending on your type of blood cancer. 

  2. Radiation Therapy:  Another common treatment is radiation therapy for blood cancer in India. High-energy X-rays or beams are used to target and damage cancer cells, preventing their growth.
    This therapy can be localised to specific areas or administered to the entire body. In some cases, radiation therapy is used as a preparation for a bone marrow transplant

  3. Targeted Therapy: A therapy that focuses on specific abnormalities present in cancer cells is targeted therapy for blood cancer in India. By blocking these abnormalities, targeted therapy can effectively eliminate cancer cells.
    Before undergoing targeted therapy, the patient's blood cancer cells are analysed to determine their suitability. 

  4. Immunotherapy: A treatment that harnesses the patient's immunity to fight against cancer cells is Immunotherapy for blood cancer in India. This treatment helps the immune system recognise and attack cancer cells effectively. It interferes with the mechanisms that cancer cells use to hide from immune system cells. 

  5. Bone Marrow Transplant: A stem cell transplant for blood cancer in India, also known as a bone marrow transplantation, is a procedure that replaces unhealthy bone marrow with healthy stem cells.
    Prior to the transplant, high-dose chemotherapy or radiation therapy is given to destroy the cancerous bone marrow. Then, the patient gets an infusion of blood-forming stem cells from either a donor or their own body. 

  6. Engineering Immune Cells: A specialised treatment known as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy involves taking a patient's germ-fighting T cells, modifying them to target cancer cells, and reintroducing them into the body.
    CAR-T cell therapy may be an option for specific types of leukaemia.

  7. Clinical Trials: Clinical trials for blood cancer treatment in India involve ongoing research studies to test new treatments or innovative uses of existing treatments.
    Participation in clinical trials offers patients the opportunity to access cutting-edge treatments, but it's important to discuss the potential advantages and risks with a healthcare professional.

Factors Determining the Treatment Approach for Blood Cancer

A team of medical experts, including haematologists, oncologists, pathologists, and other specialists, frequently decides on the best course of treatment for blood cancer patients by taking all of these aspects into account holistically. Factors that are taken under consideration include : 

  1. The type of cancer

  2. The stage of cancer

  3. Additional tests for enhanced diagnosis

  4. Overall health and age of the patient 

  5. Existing medical conditions 

  6. Availability of medical treatments and options 

Supportive Care for Blood Cancer Patients

In order to meet the holistic needs of cancer patients, supportive care is crucial. It is important for enhancing the general well-being and outcomes of people with cancer by managing symptoms, offering emotional support, promoting communication and decision-making, and coordinating treatment.

Pain, nausea, exhaustion, and appetite loss are a few physical symptoms that can be brought on by cancer and its therapies. Through interventions including pain management, nausea-relieving drugs, nutritional assistance, and fatigue management techniques, supportive care aims to reduce these symptoms. 

The patient's quality of life is enhanced, their capacity to tolerate therapy is increased, and their general well-being is promoted by effective symptom management.

Supportive care for blood cancer patients in India aims to provide emotional, physical, and practical support to patients and their loved ones facing a leukaemia diagnosis. Dealing with cancer can be overwhelming, and it is essential to have strong support management in place.

  1. Oncology Team: One valuable source of support is the oncology care team. They can answer questions, provide information about the disease and its treatment options, and guide patients through the different stages of leukaemia. 

    1. Their expertise and guidance can help individuals better understand their health conditions and make informed decisions about their care.

  2. Friends and Family: They play a major role in providing support. They offer emotional support, lending a listening ear and a comforting presence during difficult times. 

    1. Additionally, they can assist with daily tasks that may become challenging due to leukaemia symptoms or the side effects of treatment.

  3. Support Groups: These are another valuable resource for blood cancer patients in India. These groups bring together individuals who are going through similar experiences. 

    1. Sharing stories, insights, and advice can create a sense of community and understanding. 

    2. Both patients and their loved ones can benefit from joining the support groups, as they provide a safe space to express concerns and receive encouragement.

  4. Charities: Charities dedicated to supporting individuals with cancer, such as the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, offer valuable resources and assistance. 

    1. They provide information, financial support, and access to educational materials. 

    2. These organisations often have local chapters and online platforms that offer additional resources specific to the needs of blood cancer patients in India.

Cost of Blood Cancer Treatment in India

The cost of blood cancer treatments in India is sure to vary not just on the basis of the cancer type and stage but also on the selection of hospital and medical facilities.  Some of the most common factors affecting the cost of blood cancer treatments in India are: 

  1. Pre-procedure test costs 

  2. The treatment is chosen on the basis of cancer stage and type

  3. Follow-up consultation fees

  4. Medications and additional consultations 

  5. Cost of hospital stay

Surgery Name Surgery Cost
Chemotherapy ₹ 75,000 to ₹ 2,50,000
Targeted Therapy ₹ 80,000 to ₹ 2,25,000
Immunotherapy ₹ 80,000 to ₹ 2,25,000
Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell Therapy ₹ 1,50,000 to ₹ 1,75,000
Radiation Treatment ₹ 60,000 to ₹ 2,00,000
Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation ₹ 15,00,000 to ₹ 27,00,000

Best Hospitals for Blood Cancer Treatment in India

Receiving a blood cancer diagnosis can be a shocking revelation, impacting individuals physically, emotionally, and financially. However, India offers a ray of hope with its world-class hospitals, skilled oncologists, and affordable treatment costs.
Diagnosing blood cancer often involves imaging procedures such as CT scans, bone scans, MRI, biopsy tests, and PET scans.

This is the list of some of the best hospitals for blood cancer treatment in India:

  1. Narayana Superspeciality Hospitals, Gurugram: A hospital chain spread across many parts of the country, such as Bengaluru, Gurugram, Mumbai, Kolkata, etc. Narayana Superspeciality Hospitals are known for their expertise in blood cancer treatments.
    The hospital, with its state-of-the-art technology and the expertise of doctors and healthcare providers, has proved to be highly beneficial for many patients all across the country. 

  2. Artemis Hospital, Gurugram: A state-of-the-art multispeciality hospital located in Gurugram, Artemis Hospital provides promising and excellent services for blood cancer.
    By combining the best of tools and technologies with medical expertise, Artemis blood cancer treatments have been designed to meet the specific needs of the patients.

  3. BLK Superspeciality Hospital, New Delhi: Renowned for its excellent diagnostic facilities, BLK Hospital offers radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and other effective treatments for blood cancer.
    It stands out as one of India's premier blood cancer hospitals, providing top-notch infrastructure and world-trained expert medical assistance. 

  4. Indraprastha Apollo, Delhi: Located in Delhi, this is one of the best cancer treatment hospitals in the country. The Apollo Cancer Center provides unmatched services for cancer patients that include diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.
    The doctors use the best advancements and technology to provide excellent facilities to the patients.

  5. Action Cancer Hospital, Paschim Vihar, Delhi: One of the top oncology hospitals for cancer patients in the country, Action Cancer Hospital is well equipped to take care of the different types of cancer and cancer patients.
    By integrating the best of technology, infrastructure, and expertise, the hospital caters to not just domestic patients but also patients from other parts of the globe.

  6. Jaypee Hospital, Noida: A multidisciplinary hospital that provides excellent treatment, care, and support services to cancer patients, Jaypee Hospital excels in medical, surgical, and radiology oncology. 
    The hospital consists of a state-of-the-art diagnostic facility that can detect various types of cancers. They also provide comprehensive palliative and rehabilitation services. 

  7. MAX Superspeciality Hospital, Delhi: One of the best hospitals in the country for treating cancer-related ailments, MAX Superspeciality Hospital is located in New Delhi.
    The hospital uses the best in advancements and development combined with medical expertise to provide excellent services to the patients. 

  8. Medanta-The Medicity, Gurugram:  Located in Delhi, the primary objective of Medanta is to provide world-class and comprehensive services to cancer patients from all parts of the country and abroad.
    The hospital consists of different cancer department that helps in not only the accurate diagnosis but also treatment. 

  9. Kokilaben Hospital, Navi Mumbai: Equipped with state-of-the-art imaging and therapy systems, Kokilaben Hospital, located in Navi Mumbai, provides advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies for blood cancer.
    It is highly regarded as one of India's best cancer hospitals for blood cancer treatment.

  10.  Fortis Hospital Malar, Adyar, Chennai: Fortis Hospital Malar specialises in medical and radiation oncology, once-surgery, and haematology. With top-notch haematologists and oncologists, it is recognised as one of India's premier blood cancer hospitals.

  11. Global Hospitals, Mumbai: Based in Mumbai, Global Hospitals is well-equipped with state-of-the-art imaging and therapy systems. This institute provides advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies for blood cancer.
    It is highly regarded as one of India's best cancer hospitals for blood cancer treatment.

  12. Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai: With over 360 beds, Jaslok Hospital is an esteemed multi-speciality tertiary care trust hospital.
    Its Oncology department offers top-class clinical expertise, cutting-edge technology, and personalised care, making it one of Mumbai's best blood cancer hospitals.

Takeaway

You are now aware that there are various varieties of blood cancer, each with its own set of symptoms and treatment choices. While there is no definite strategy to prevent blood cancer, the best hospitals for blood cancer treatment in India may assist you in successfully treating blood cancer.
Suppose you are diagnosed with the disease; it is critical that you collaborate with your healthcare team to decide on an appropriate cancer treatment strategy for you.

To discover more about health issues that are both big and small, we at HexaHealth are a one-stop destination for you. Our committed team works hard to gather the right set of information for you that proves to be highly beneficial in resolving your health-related questions and queries.
To discover how we can help you streamline and simplify many processes for you, simply log on to HexaHealth today. 

Suggested Reads

Is Blood Cancer Curable or Not Leukaemia Medicines
Leukaemia diagnosis through blood test Leukemia vs Lymphoma

Frequently Asked Questions

Can blood cancer be treated?

The type and stage of the disease, the type of treatment available, and other factors all affect how well a person's cancer can be treated. Compared to other cancers, some are more likely to respond to treatment. But every tumour needs to be handled individually. No one treatment can stop cancer.

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What are the treatment options for blood cancer?

Doctors employ various options for cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, bone marrow transplant (also called stem cell transplant), immunotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted drug therapy, and participation in clinical trials.
These methods aim to remove or kill cancer cells, strengthen the immune system, block hormone effects, or target specific abnormalities. Clinical trials explore innovative approaches to treating cancer, with numerous ongoing trials worldwide.

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How is blood cancer treated in India?

In India, blood cancer treatment aligns with international standards. The country boasts specialised hospitals and clinics equipped with advanced treatments and technologies. These institutions house skilled doctors and nurses who specialise in blood cancer treatment. 

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Which hospitals in India are renowned for blood cancer treatment?

Some of the top hospitals in India for blood cancer treatment include Fortis Hospital, Action Cancer Hospital, Artemis, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Dharamshila Narayana etc. These institutions have a strong reputation for exceptional care for blood cancer patients. 

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Who are the top 5 leading haematology oncologists in India for blood cancer treatment?

Prominent haematology oncologists in India for blood cancer treatment include: 

  1. Dr Rahul Bhargava - Fortis Hospital 

  2. Dr Mohit Saxena - Narayana Superspeciality Hospitals 

  3. Dr S Hukku  - BLK Max Super Speciality Hospital 

  4. Dr Ramesh Sarin - Indraprastha Apollo Hospital 

  5. Dr JB Sharma - Action Cancer Hospital

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What is the role of chemotherapy in blood cancer treatment in India?

Chemotherapy is the primary treatment for blood cancer in India. It aims to kill cancer cells and reduce tumour size. Chemotherapy can be administered orally, through injections, or infusions. It may be used alone but usually in combination with radiation therapy or targeted therapy. 

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How is radiation therapy utilised in blood cancer treatment in India?

Radiation therapy is employed to kill cancer cells and shrink tumours, often in conjunction with chemotherapy. It can be delivered externally (external beam radiation therapy) using high-energy beams or internally (internal radiation therapy) using radioactive seeds or capsules. 

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Are targeted therapy options available for blood cancer treatment in India?

Yes, targeted therapy options are available for blood cancer treatment in India. These therapies specifically target molecules on cancer cells and are commonly used when other treatments have been ineffective.

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What is the procedure for stem cell transplantation in blood cancer treatment in India?

Stem cell transplantation involves replacing damaged or destroyed bone marrow with healthy stem cells. This procedure is frequently performed for leukaemia patients.

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Are there immunotherapy options for blood cancer treatment in India?

Indeed, there are immunotherapy options available for blood cancer treatment in India. Immunotherapy utilises the body's immune system to combat cancer and is often used when other treatments have not yielded positive results.

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Are there any ongoing clinical trials for blood cancer treatment in India?

Ongoing clinical trials in India offer promising avenues for blood cancer treatment. These trials, which test new drugs, devices, or procedures, provide access to cutting-edge treatments that are not yet available to the general public.

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What is the cost associated with blood cancer treatment in India?

The blood cancer treatment costs in India depend on factors like cancer type, stage, choice of hospital and doctor, treatment duration, and available insurance or financial aid.
Comparatively, the cost of treatment in India is significantly lower than in many other countries. For instance, a bone marrow transplant, a standard procedure for blood cancer patients, may cost around ₹ 15,00,000  to ₹ 27,00,000 in India.

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What supportive care measures are available for blood cancer patients in India?

Blood cancer patients in India have access to various supportive care measures to address the physical and emotional aspects of the disease and its treatment. These measures include 

  1. Pain management 

  2. Nutritional counselling 

  3. Psychological counselling

  4. Social work services

  5. Spiritual care

  6. Palliative care

  7. Hospice care

  8. Survivorship care

Patients can consult their doctors or nurses to explore suitable supportive care options. 

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Are there alternative treatments or complementary therapies for blood cancer in India?

Alternative treatments or complementary therapies are sometimes considered alongside or as alternatives to conventional medical treatments for blood cancer. Examples include herbal medicine, acupuncture, homoeopathy, yoga, and meditation.
However, it's important to note that insufficient scientific evidence exists to verify their safety or effectiveness for blood cancer patients. Therefore, it is advisable to contact a doctor before considering alternative treatments or complementary therapies for blood cancer.

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How is palliative care provided to blood cancer patients in India?

Palliative care emphasises enhancing the quality of life for patients with severe illnesses like blood cancer. It aims to alleviate pain, nausea, fatigue, anxiety, and depression while providing emotional and spiritual support to patients and their families.
Palliative care can be provided by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals and volunteers in various settings, including home, hospital, or hospice.

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What are the long-term survival rates for blood cancer patients in India?

Long-term survival rates for blood cancer patients in India vary depending on factors such as cancer type, stage, treatment response, and overall health. Rough estimates suggest a five-year survival rate for different types of blood cancer. Around 50% for leukaemia, 60% for lymphoma, and 40% for myeloma patients. However, these rates may change as new treatments and technologies emerge.

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Can you fully recover from blood cancer?

Complete recovery is possible for some types of blood cancer if detected early and treated effectively. For example, Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL), commonly found in children, has a cure rate of over 80%. 

Certain blood cancers may not be curable but can be controlled through ongoing treatment and monitoring. For instance, Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML) in adults can be controlled with Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs) that inhibit cancer cell growth.

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What to expect during recovery after blood cancer treatment?

During recovery after blood cancer treatment, you may experience temporary side effects such as fatigue, infections, bleeding problems, hair loss, mouth sores, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. These side effects usually decrease within a few weeks or months after treatment. 

Proper follow-up visits with your doctor to monitor your health and blood counts are essential. Precautions, such as avoiding crowded places and practising good hygiene, can help prevent infections and complications.

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How long does a blood cancer patient live?

Life expectancy for a blood cancer patient depends on factors like cancer type, stage, treatment response, age, and overall health. Prognosis varies, with some blood cancers having better outcomes than others.
For example, Hodgkin lymphoma has a five-year survival rate of over 80%, while acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) has a five-year survival rate below 30%. However, these statistics represent averages, and individual outcomes may differ. 

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Can you live an everyday life with blood cancer?

Absolutely! With proper treatment, care, and a positive attitude, living a fulfilling life with blood cancer is possible. Staying physically active, engaging in hobbies and interests, joining support groups, and seeking professional help can improve your quality of life.

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References

All the articles on HexaHealth are supported by verified medically-recognized sources such as; peer-reviewed academic research papers, research institutions, and medical journals. Our medical reviewers also check references of the articles to prioritize accuracy and relevance. Refer to our detailed editorial policy for more information.


  1. NHS England» Faster diagnosis [Internet]. www.england.nhs.uk.link
  2. Mayo Clinic. Leukemia - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic [Internet]. Mayoclinic.org. 2021.link

Updated on : 17 July 2023

Reviewer

Dr. Aman Priya Khanna

Dr. Aman Priya Khanna

MBBS, DNB General Surgery, Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery, FIAGES

12 Years Experience

Dr Aman Priya Khanna is a well-known General Surgeon, Proctologist and Bariatric Surgeon currently associated with HealthFort Clinic, Health First Multispecialty Clinic in Delhi. He has 12 years of experience in General Surgery and worke...View More

Author

Sangeeta Sharma

Sangeeta Sharma

BSc. Biochemistry I MSc. Biochemistry (Oxford College Bangalore)

6 Years Experience

She has extensive experience in content and regulatory writing with reputed organisations like Sun Pharmaceuticals and Innodata. Skilled in SEO and passionate about creating informative and engaging medical conten...View More

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