Immunotherapy for Prostate Cancer in India: Cost, Hospitals, Specialists
Immunotherapy for prostate cancer in India offers a promising solution to the costly prostate cancer treatments in the West. Learn all about costs, JCI-accredited hospitals, and top specialists. Get high-cost savings for safe and best-quality treatment today. Read ahead to know more.
What Is the Cost of Immunotherapy for Prostate Cancer in India?
The cost of immunotherapy for prostate cancer in India starts at USD $1,200 and goes up to USD $85,000 for advanced treatments. This is quite lower compared to the US where the treatment starts at USD $15,000 and can go over USD $400,000 for higher treatments.
You can get various types of immunotherapies ranging from basic drugs to high-end CAR T-cell therapy.
Here is a breakdown of the costs:
|
Type of Immunotherapy |
About the immunotherapy |
Cost in India in USD |
Cost in the US in USD |
| Non-Specific Immunotherapy | Administering general drugs to increase the immune system strength | Starts at $1200 | Ranges between $15,000[1] -$30,000[2] |
| Monoclonal Antibodies | Man-made proteins that are inserted in the body to act like antibodies | $1500[3] | Over $100,000[4] |
| Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors | Medication boosting the immune system by removing all checkpoints in fighting 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[7] | Over $400,000[8] |
Cost of Other Treatments for Prostate Cancer in India
Other treatments, such as laparoscopic prostatectomy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and robotic surgery for prostate cancer, are also affordable in India. The cost of these treatments starts from USD $6,500.
This is much lower compared to the prices in the US.
Check out this comparison table to understand the price difference:
| Treatment Type | Cost in India (USD) | Cost in the US (USD) |
| Chemotherapy | $6500 | $8,181–$8,586[9] |
| Radiation Therapy | $6500 | $18000[10] |
| Laparoscopic Prostatectomy | $9000 | $29,000 |
| Robotic surgery | $9000 | $29000 |
Overview of Immunotherapy for Cancer in India
Immunotherapy helps the body's immune system fight cancer. Unlike chemotherapy and radiation, which directly attack cancer cells, immunotherapy boosts the immune system, making it better at finding and destroying cancer cells.
Prostate cancer was reported to be the second most common cancer among men in 2020.[11]
2022 showed an estimated 268,490 new cases of prostate cancer in the United States.[12]
Many immunotherapy treatments for different cancers can be combined with surgery. They can also be combined with chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapies to improve effectiveness.
Different Types of Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy includes several different types, each working in unique ways to help the immune system fight cancer more effectively. Here are the main types:
- Non-Specific Immunotherapy
Non-specific immunotherapy uses general drugs that boost the immune system's overall ability to fight cancer. This method does not target cancer cells specifically but strengthens the body's natural defenses. - Monoclonal Antibodies
Monoclonal antibodies are lab-made molecules designed to work like natural antibodies in the immune system. They specifically target and bind to cancer cells, marking them for destruction by the immune system. This targeted approach helps reduce damage to healthy cells. - Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Immune checkpoint inhibitors remove the 'brakes' that keep the immune system from attacking cancer cells. These drugs block proteins that stop immune cells from killing cancer cells, boosting the body's response against cancer. This type of immunotherapy is especially effective for advanced prostate cancer. - T-cell Therapy (CAR T-cell Therapy)
CAR T-cell therapy is an advanced form of immunotherapy. It involves modifying a patient's T-cells in a lab to better recognize and attack cancer cells. The process includes taking a person's immune cells, altering them to target cancer cells, and then putting them back into the body.
Want to know more about this advanced treatment and how it is changing the field of oncology in India? Read about CAR T-cell therapy in India.
Each of these therapies offers unique benefits and has different costs, providing a range of options for prostate cancer patients in India.[13]
Immunotherapy and Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer affects the male reproductive system. However, this can be effectively treated with immunotherapy. The most effective type is Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors.
Immunotherapy continues to hold as a promising treatment option for certain prostate cancer patients. Tumors with specific high mutation rates may respond more effectively to immune checkpoint inhibitors in clinical settings.[14]
However, it’s important to understand that prostate cancers and some of the treatments can negatively impact reproductivity.[15]
Procedure: Complete Guide to Immunotherapy for Prostate Cancer in India
Get all the details on how to access immunotherapy in India. Ensure a seamless and affordable treatment journey.
Plan Your Travel
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 centre in India for your needs.
Specialists in India check patients' existing 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.
Check out complete information for Immunotherapy for Cancer in India.
Candidate for Immunotherapy in India for Prostate 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 important to identify biomarkers and other blood tests to determine whether a patient is eligible for immunotherapy.
Prepare for Immunotherapy for Prostate 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 assess 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 Prostate Cancer
Immunotherapy offers several benefits, especially for prostate cancer treatment.
- Preservation of Prostate Function: One significant benefit of immunotherapy for prostate cancer is the preservation of prostate function.
- Targeted Treatment: It specifically targets cancer cells, sparing healthy tissues.
- Fewer Side Effects: It generally has fewer side effects than traditional treatments.
- Improved Survival Rates: It increases the chances of long-term remission and survival.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Patients often experience a better quality of life during and after treatment.[16]
Side-Effects of Immunotherapy for Prostate Cancer
While effective, immunotherapy can have side effects, such as:
- Fatigue: Patients often feel extremely tired.
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Skin Reactions: Rashes, redness, and itching at the injection site.
- Proctitis (Inflammation of the Rectum): Rectal pain, bleeding, an urgent need to defecate, and diarrhea.
- Flu-like Symptoms: Fever, chills, and muscle aches.
- Digestive Issues: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Skin Reactions: Rashes, itching, and other skin conditions.[17]
You should discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider to effectively manage and mitigate these issues.
What Is the Success Rate of Immunotherapy for Prostate Cancer?
The success rate of immunotherapy for prostate cancer ranges from 86.6% - 97.8%. This suggests many patients experienced significant improvement and prolonged survival. Ongoing research and clinical trials continue to enhance these outcomes, providing hope for many.[18]
A study conducted by Indian scientists showed more than a 60% reduction in the size of lesions in the left para-aortic, mediastinal, and right supraclavicular nodes[19]
Best Hospital for Immunotherapy for Prostate Cancer in India
With a network of 14 hospitals across Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Punjab, they offer standardized and international-class healthcare services across 29 specialties.
BLK Max Hospital, one of the largest private clinics in Delhi, ranks among the top 10 Multi Sup
- 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
Equipped with 256 Slice CT Angio, 3.0 Tesla MRI, and Cath Labs, it offers Cardiac Sciences, Orthopaedics, Urology, Neurology, Paediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynaecology.
With 300+ specialists and advanced technology, it provides comprehens
- 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
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 Prostate Cancer in India
Dr. Pramod Kumar Julka
44 years
M.D.
Expertise
Oncology
Education
Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi, India
- Emeritus Member - American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)
- Member - Society of Cancer Research & National Advisory Committee of Global Cancer Summit 2015
- Leading Scientist of the World 2005’ Award - International Biographical Centre of Cambridge, England (2005)
Dr. Esha Kaul
12 years
MBBS
Expertise
Haematology, Oncology, Stem Cells
Education
All India Institute of Medical Sciences
- Member of the American Society of Transplant and Cellular Therapy
- Residency in Internal Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, USA
- Director of Hematology, Haemato-Oncology & BMT Max Hospital, Vaishali
Dr. Chandragouda Dodagoudar
19 years
MD (General Medicine)
Expertise
Medical Oncology
Education
Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore, India.
- Best Resident Doctor award at RGCI and RC- Received an award from Honorable Vice President of India
- Organ-Specific Medical Oncologist
- Bharat Jyoti Award from NGO - India International Friendship Society
Dr. Meenu Walia
33 years
MD (Internal Medicine)
Expertise
Medical Oncology
Education
University of Delhi, India.
- Part of American Society of Clinical Oncologists (ASCO)
- Member of European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) and Indian Medical Association (IMA)
- Featured in a book titled “Luminaries In Healthcare” by Mail today in December (2015)
Dr. Gopal Sharma
He specializes in hematological malignancies and targeted chemotherapy for solid cancers.Read more
Education
Gujarat Cancer Research Institute, Ahmedabad, India.
Memberships
- Oncology Forum, Delhi NCR
- ASCO
- European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO)
- Indian Society of Medical and Pediatric Oncology (ISMPO)
Conclusion
Immunotherapy for prostate cancer in India offers a low-cost, effective alternative to expensive treatments in the West. With top hospitals, renowned specialists, and a high success rate, overseas patients can be rest assured to get exceptional care without financial strain.
Why MTC Partners in India Have the Best Immunotherapy Program for Prostate Cancer?
MTC partners with NABH and JCI-accredited hospitals in India to provide the best immunotherapy programs for prostate cancer. These programs are backed by advanced research, experienced specialists, and state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring high success rates and patient satisfaction.
Expertise and Specialization
Renowned oncologists and experts trained in specialized robotic surgery for decades. Their expertise ensures tailored treatment plans based on the latest research and patient-specific factors.
Comprehensive Approach
State-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including the latest Da Vinci Robot, PET-CT imaging, and genetic testing, to accurately diagnose and monitor prostate cancer.
Access to Advanced Therapies
Patients at MTC partner hospitals benefit from cutting-edge immunotherapy treatments. This includes Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors, known for their efficacy in treating prostate cancer by enhancing the body's immune response against cancer cells.
Research and Innovation
MTC Partners are actively involved in clinical research and trials focused on advancing immunotherapy for prostate cancer. Their commitment to innovation ensures that patients have access to the latest advancements and potential breakthroughs in cancer treatment.
Positive Treatment Outcomes
The success stories of our distinguished partners illustrate their leadership in prostate cancer care through immunotherapy. These include notable instances of significant tumor regression, extended survival rates, and enhanced quality of life for patients undergoing treatment.
FAQs
The cost of immunotherapy for prostate cancer in India starts at $1,200 and can go upto $85,000 for advanced treatments like CAR T-cell therapy, significantly lower than in the US.
Immunotherapy has shown high success rates ranging from 86.6% - 97.8%, with many patients achieving remission and improved quality of life. However, it cannot be guaranteed that immunotherapy can cure prostate cancer, as the treatment is always ongoing, with varied factors affecting the patient's stages of cancer.
Common side effects include fatigue, possible erectile dysfunction, skin reactions, flu-like symptoms, and digestive issues, which can be managed with medical guidance.
References
- Wellcome: More people should have access to monoclonal antibodies. Covid-19 can make that happen
- Jama Network: Estimated Costs and Long-term Outcomes of Patients With High-Risk Non–Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer
- TOI: Monoclonal therapy a hit despite price
- Pubmed: Pricing of monoclonal antibody therapies: higher if used for cancer?
- ASCO Publications: Effectiveness of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
- NCBI: The future of affordable cancer immunotherapy
- ASCO Publications: High Cost of Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cells: Challenges and Solutions
- Medical NewsToday: How much does chemotherapy cost, and where can a person find help
- NIH: Cancer Stat Facts: Common Cancer Sites
- WebMD: Types of Immunotherapy
- MedicalNewsToday: What to know about prostate cancer
- Healthline: Can Immunotherapy Treat Prostate Cancer?
- MDPI: The Cellular and Molecular Immunotherapy in Prostate Cancer
- T&F Onlines: Substantial Remission of Prostate Adenocarcinoma With Dendritic Cell Therapy APCEDEN® in Combination With Chemotherapy