Immunotherapy for Oral Cancer in India: Cost, Hospitals & Treatment Type
Discover safe and affordable immunotherapy for oral cancer in India at JCI-accredited hospitals. Find top doctors and success rates.
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What Is the Cost of Immunotherapy for Oral Cancer in India?
The cost of immunotherapy for oral cancer in India starts at USD $1,200 for basic medication. Advanced immunotherapies such as CAR T-cell therapy can go up to USD $85,000.
Find below what all is included and not included in the cost package.
- Stay and meals for the patient during the treatment plan
- Complete therapy (including all lab work, blood work, and genetic alterations)
- Consultation of the main specialist and full team
- All medications as per the treatment plan
- Additional stay and meals post-treatment plan
- Investigation and follow-up phases of the treatment
- Additional surgery or procedure
- Consultation with a doctor of an unrelated specialty
- Medication apart from the treatment plan
- Extra specialized equipment & PPP are required
The treatment begins at $15,000 in the USA and can go up to $400,000.
Not every oral cancer case requires immunotherapy. Your doctor will evaluate multiple factors before recommending this treatment.
Below is a cost table showing the range and cost of immunotherapy options to treat oral cancer.
|
Type of Immunotherapy |
About the immunotherapy |
Cost in India in USD |
Cost in the US in USD |
| Non-Specific Immunotherapy | Giving basic drugs for increasing immunity | Starts at $1200 | Ranges between $15,000[1] -$30,000[2] |
| Monoclonal Antibodies | Man-made proteins that act like antibodies | $1500[3] | Over $100,000[4] |
| Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors | Removes all checkpoints that fight cancer | $82,000[5] | $250,000[6] |
| T-cell Therapy (CAR T-cell therapy) | Use of a part of a patient’s white blood cells to fight cancer by modifying them in a lab | $50,000 - $85,000 | Over $400,000[7] |
Cost of Other Treatments for Oral Cancer in India
Besides immunotherapy, other treatments may be effective in treating oral cancer. Many times, immunotherapy is used along with other conventional cancer treatments.
In India, the standard cancer treatment options include:
- Surgery: This involves the surgical removal of the cancerous tissue. If the nearby lymph nodes are affected, they are also removed from the neck during the procedure.
- Radiation therapy: Most often, radiation therapy is given to the patient before and after surgery. When radiation therapy is done after surgery, it helps kill any cancer cells that may have been left behind.
- Chemotherapy: In some oral cancer cases, chemotherapy may be required along with radiotherapy. Chemotherapy involves inducing chemicals in the body that kill cancerous tumors.
The cost of oral cancer treatment in India varies widely but is more affordable than in the US:
| Stage of oral cancer | Cost in India in USD | Cost in the USA in USD |
| Average treatment cost (standard doses) | $4600+[8] | $45,000 to $75,000[9] |
While these oral cancer treatments have been effective and affordable, advanced immunotherapy procedures are becoming more accessible to patients.
Our complete guide to Immunotherapy for cancer in India will help you learn about this latest treatment.
Overview of Immunotherapy for Cancer in India
With promising immunotherapy results and several companies researching various drugs, the treatment is becoming increasingly popular in India.
A study in India found that an ultra-low dose of the immunotherapy drug nivolumab is helpful for people with advanced stages of head and neck cancers and helps them live longer.[10]
Different Types of Immunotherapy
There are different types of immunotherapy procedures. Some of these are targeted drug therapies or biological therapies. Let’s get acquainted with them here:
- Non-specific immunotherapy
As the name suggests, this immunotherapy is not specific to cancer but tries to better the immune system of the body as a whole. Highly beneficial for cancer as well, the therapy includes an infusion of cytokines, interferons, and interleukins to boost the immune response. - Monoclonal antibodies (MAB)
Antibodies are naturally found in our blood and help fight infections. Monoclonal antibodies are artificial antibodies prepared in a lab and injected into the patient's body. There are different types of monoclonal antibodies, and they work in many ways. Each monoclonal antibody works by identifying specific proteins in the cells. They either trigger the immune system to attack the cancer cells or act on the cells to help the immune system attack them. - Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
These are immunotherapy molecules that block checkpoint proteins. The checkpoints stop the immune system from attacking cancer cells. Some examples of immune checkpoint inhibitors include pembrolizumab and ipilimumab. - T-Cell Therapy (CAR T-Cell Therapy)
CAR T-cell therapy is a complex and specialized immunotherapy treatment. During this procedure, the specialist collects and modifies the patient’s T-cells. This modified T-cell is now called a Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell or a CAR T-cell.
Read the complete guide to CAR T-Cell Therapy in India right here.
Immunotherapy and Oral Cancer
Oral cancer affects the mouth and throat, causing difficulty swallowing, speaking, and eating.
Immunotherapy is a modern cancer treatment that stimulates the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Some recent studies in India have shown that low doses of certain immunotherapy drugs effectively treat oral cancer and cause fewer side effects.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy is the most effective immunotherapy for oral cancer. Top Indian hospitals are treating oral cancer with immunotherapy.
A study in India showed promising results with a low-dose nivolumab regimen for advanced head and neck cancers.[10] Many studies across the globe have found the use of immunotherapy for oral cancer effective as a neoadjuvant therapy for recurrent and metastatic head and neck cancer.[11]
Procedure: Complete Guide to Immunotherapy for Oral Cancer in India
Immunotherapy for oral cancer in India is highly accessible and affordable for overseas patients. Here is an all-inclusive detailed guide detailing everything from travel to connecting with the right oncology program.
- Overseas patients can get safe and affordable immunotherapy treatment for cancer in India. Immunotherapy can be done alongside other cancer treatments or when other treatments fail.
- Our medical advisors contact you and collect all your existing reports, initial medical files, and scans to evaluate.
- Upon examination, our team finds the perfect immunotherapy center in India for your needs.
- Specialists in India check patients' gene test results to see if immunotherapy is needed. If so, a treatment plan is created, and the patient travels to India.
- Our medical advisors are connected with the patient throughout the journey, ensuring travel paperwork and the journey are seamless.
- Once in India, our team helps find accommodation and handles all logistics to make the patient journey comfortable.
- Doctors conduct more tests to determine whether the patient is eligible for advanced levels of immunotherapy.
Candidate for Immunotherapy in India for Oral Cancer
Not all patients with cancer can get immunotherapy.
To be eligible for the treatment, your physician will conduct several tests, including Biomarker Testing or Gene Testing.
Biomarker Testing identifies specific changes in the patient's DNA caused by cancer, determining the best treatment options. For example, an important indicator to do immunotherapy is the presence of PDL1 biomarker in the patient.
PD L1 is a molecule that usually keeps our immune system in check. However, in cancer patients, PDL1 can allow the cancer cells to escape the T-cells trying to attack them.
PD L1 interferes with the body's anti-cancer immune response and does not allow the body to become healthy.
By giving immunotherapy drugs and inhibitors, the PDL1 interference can be stopped, making the body healthy again.
This is why it is essential to identify biomarkers and other blood tests to determine whether a patient is eligible for immunotherapy.
Prepare for Immunotherapy for Oral Cancer in India
To prepare for immunotherapy, patients need to follow some protocols:
- Tests before treatment: The patient will undergo specific gene tests, such as biomarker tests, to assess eligibility for immunotherapy. Pre-therapy tests could also include routine blood tests and imaging scans to evaluate the patient’s health.
Quit smoking and drinking alcohol: Smoking and alcohol consumption can gravely harm your body. - Eat Healthy: A balanced diet is imperative to boost a person’s immune system. Eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Follow the doctor’s recommendations on diet.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water removes toxins and helps the immune system stay strong.
- Support: The therapy has side effects and can make the patient weak. International patients are welcome to bring a family member along with them.
Benefits of Immunotherapy for Oral Cancer
Immunotherapy is particularly beneficial for oral cancer:
- Immunotherapy increases survival rates. A study published in NCBI showcased progression-free survival rates were 66.9% and 50.1% at six months and one year, respectively[12]
- More effective in preventing disease progression
- More targeted treatment in comparison to radiotherapy and chemotherapy
Side-Effects of Immunotherapy for Oral Cancer
As with other therapies to treat cancer, Immunotherapy too can cause side effects in patients.
Common side effects of immunotherapy for oral cancer include:[13]
- Endocrinopathies (conditions affecting hormone-producing glands) like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland), hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland)[14]
- Fatigue
- Skin rash or itchiness[15]
- Pain
- Gastrointestinal trouble like constipation and diarrhoea
- Reaction to infusions or the chemotherapeutic drug
- Loss of appetite
The side effect depends upon several factors:
- Your overall health before treatment
- The stage and grade of your cancer
- Extent of spread
- Type of oral cancer
What Is the Success Rate of Immunotherapy for Oral Cancer in India?
The success rate of immunotherapy for oral cancer in India can go up to 80%.[16] This was stated in a controlled study conducted in India among patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), which showed better responses to immunotherapy.
The success rate of immunotherapy for oral cancer in India varies for every individual. A 2020 clinical trial showed that around 52% of participants experienced a clinical reduction of their primary tumor after immunotherapy.[17]
Best Hospital for Immunotherapy for Oral Cancer in India
The JCI-accredited facility is one of the largest private clinics in Delhi and ranks among the top 10 multi-specialty hospitals.
As part of the Max Healthcare Group, a leading provider in India, it caters to both domestic and international patients.
The hospital specializes in cancer treatment, bariatric surgery, and cardiology, using advanced equipment that meets European hospital standards.
- 60+ Years of Experience
- JCI Accredited
- NABH Accredited
- Advanced technology medical oncology like immunotherapy, targeted therapy and chemotherapy
- Leading medical oncology specialists with organ-specific expertise
- Round-the-clock critical care with OPD services, which are designed for an organ-specific approach
With advanced diagnostic units, Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, is a renowned 250-bed hospital in South Delhi, India.
It has 12 modular theatres, emergency care, Tesla MRI and Cath Labs and 50 critical beds. The hospital offers Cardiac Sciences, Orthopaedics, Urology, Neurology, Paediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynaecology.
With 300+ specialists working here, it is a highly sought-after healthcare centre.
- NABH Accredited
- 300+ Doctors
- 22+ Departments
- JCI-accredited with high-tech equipment like Da Vinci Robot, Novalis Tx for IMRT/IGRT, Radiosurgery, HIPEC and SRS/SRT for oncology care
- Pioneers in all kinds of cancer treatment, including immunotherapy, hormone therapy and stem cell transplant
- Highly skilled oncology team, including specialists with over 4 decades of experience
Considered as one of the best hospitals in Delhi-NCR, Max Super Specialty Hospital is situated in Vaishali, Ghaziabad
Renowned for its world-class infrastructure, advanced technology, and stringent health and safety standards, it has earned multiple awards and industry accreditations, establishing itself as a leader among healthcare providers.
- NABH Accreditation
- NABL Accreditation
- 28+ Specialities
- State-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive support services for patients undergoing advanced immunotherapy like CAR-T cell therapy.
- Top haematology experts who provide advanced oncology care to patients.
- NABH-accredited multidisciplinary hospital with over 260 leading specialists.
Best Specialists for Immunotherapy for Oral Cancer in India
Dr. Pramod Kumar Julka
Dr. P.K. Julka is a renowned oncologist, author, and cancer researcher. Dr Julka was awarded the Padma Shri in 2013, India's fourth highest civilian honor.
He has also received the "Leading Scientist of the World 2005" award from the International Biographical Centre of Cambridge.
He has been a WHO fellow at MD Anderson Hospital in Houston, Texas, and Long Beach Memorial Cancer Centre in California, US.
Education
Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi, India
Memberships
- American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)
- National Advisory Committee of Global Cancer Summit
Dr. Esha Kaul
American board-certified, Dr. Kaul is the Director of Hematology, Hemato-Oncology, and BMT at Max Hospital.
As a DNB in Hematology from Tufts Medical Center, USA, she is among the few doctors in India offering advanced treatments in her field.
Education
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences
- Tufts Medical Center, USA
Memberships
- American Society of Hematology
- American Society of Transplant and Cellular Therapy
- International Myeloma Society
Dr. Chandragouda Dodagoudar
Dr. Dodagoudar was awarded the Best Resident Doctor at RGCI & RC from the Honourable Vice President of India.
He has also received the Bharat Jyoti Award from NGO - India International Friendship Society.
Education
Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore, India
Memberships
- Delhi Medical Council
- Karnataka Medical Council
Dr. Meenu Walia
Dr. Meenu Walia leads the Department of Medical Oncology & Hematology at Max Super Specialty Hospital. She was the first in India to achieve a DNB in Medical Oncology.
Dr, Walia has received the Bharat Jyoti Award and multiple awards from IMA for Medical Excellence. She was featured in the book titled “Luminaries In Healthcare” by Mail Today in December (2015).
Education
University of Delhi, India
Memberships
- Indian Medical Association (IMA)
- American Society of Clinical Oncologists (ASCO)
- European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO)
Dr. Gopal Sharma
He is a Senior Medical Oncologist in Northern India, specializing in Haemato-medical Oncology. Dr. Sharma is a part of the Indo-American Cancer Association (IACA).
He specializes in haematological malignancies and targeted chemotherapy for solid cancers.
Education
Gujarat Cancer Research Institute, Ahmedabad, India
Memberships
- Oncology Forum, Delhi NCR
- American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)
- European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO)
- Indian Society of Medical and Pediatric Oncology (ISMPO)
Conclusion
With 80% success rate, Immunotherapy for oral cancer in India is a promising treatment option. Find affordable care at JCI-accredited hospitals with top oncologists.
Connect today!
Why MTC Partners in India Have the Best Immunotherapy Program for Oral Cancer?
MTC partners with the best immunotherapy programs for oral cancer in India to deliver the most successful treatments to patients at reasonable prices. Our partner cancer centers and hospitals have:
- The most experienced doctors: Our cancer specialists have over 30 years of experience treating oral cancer and have successfully treated head and neck cancers with immunotherapy.
- Best-in-class facilities: Our partner facilities have state-of-the-art facilities that provide comprehensive cancer care- from diagnosis to treatment.
- Comprehensive patient care: Our partner centers offer personalized cancer care tailored to your needs. They use a multidisciplinary approach to ensure exceptionally customized patient care.
All our partner immunotherapy program centers are equipped with advanced devices that enable precise diagnosis and manage cancer with minimal damage to surrounding organs.
FAQs
Yes, mouth cancer can be treated with immunotherapy. It has an 80% success rate. However, as with most cancers, there is no guarantee of a cure, as this depends on several factors.
Max Healthcare in India has some of the most successful and experienced doctors specializing in immunotherapy.
If detected in very early stages, mouth cancer can be cured. Early-stage oral cancers are localized and can be easily removed surgically. Other treatments like radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy often follow surgery.
India is an excellent destination for cancer treatments. With experienced doctors, modern equipment, novel drugs, ongoing research, and affordable treatment costs, India is a booming destination for cancer care.
The immune checkpoint inhibitor type of immunotherapy is the best for oral cancer and has shown a higher success rate. However, your doctor will evaluate your condition and determine the best treatment.
For some cancers, immunotherapy may be the first line of treatment when the cancer has reached advanced stages. For others, immunotherapy is usually the last resort when the cancer does not respond to other treatment options.
Immunotherapy for cancer is available in India. It can treat a wide range of cancers with good prognosis. While initially thought to be an expensive treatment, it is becoming more affordable with the availability of novel immunotherapy drugs.
References
- Welcome.org: More people should have access to monoclonal antibodies. Covid-19 can make that happen.
- JAMA Network Open: Estimated Costs and Long-term Outcomes of Patients With High-Risk Non–Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer Treated With Bacillus Calmette-Guérin in the Veterans Affairs Health System
- Times of India: Monoclonal therapy a hit despite price
- PubMed: Pricing of monoclonal antibody therapies: higher if used for cancer?
- JCO Global Oncology: Effectiveness of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Various Tumor Types Treated by Low, Per-Weight, and Conventional Doses at a Tertiary Care Center in Mumbai
- Frontier Immunology: The future of affordable cancer immunotherapy
- ASCO Educational Book: High Cost of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cells: Challenges and Solutions
- Wiley Online Library: Cost Analysis of Oral Cancer Treatment in a Tertiary Care Referral Center in India
- PubMed Central: Oral Cancer Prevalence, Mortality, and Costs in Medicaid and Commercial Insurance Claims Data
- National Cancer Institute: Study in India Could Make Immunotherapy More Affordable Worldwide
- Frontiers.Org: Case report: Patient specific combination of surgery and immunotherapy in advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck – a case series and review of literature
- Frontiers in Pharmacology: Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Toxicity in Head and Neck Cancer: From Identification to Management
- Macmillan Cancer Support: Targeted therapy for head and neck cancer
- Journal of Cardiovascular Disease Research: The emerging role of immunotherapy in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: A controlled clinical trial
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute: Pre-operative immunotherapy shows promise in oral cancers
