Breast Cancer Treatment in India

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women globally. Advancements in medicine, early diagnosis, and effective treatment can lead to complete recovery in most cases. For international patients seeking high-quality yet affordable cancer care, India is a leading destination. With access to experienced oncologists, modern hospitals, and multiple treatment options, patients can receive world-class care without facing overwhelming expenses.
The cost of breast cancer treatment in India ranges from ₹2,50,000 to ₹7,50,000 ($3,000 to $9,000). This estimate includes diagnostics, surgery (such as lumpectomy or mastectomy), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care. The actual cost may vary depending on the stage of cancer, the type of treatment required, the hospital's location, and any additional therapies, such as targeted treatment or immunotherapy.

What Is Breast Cancer and Its Types?

Breast cancer is a disease in which specific cells in the breast start to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. If not detected and treated early, these cells can spread to nearby lymph nodes and distant parts of the body. While breast cancer is commonly found in women, it can also affect men, albeit rarely. The disease is treatable when diagnosed early, and outcomes have improved significantly in recent years.

Most Common Types of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is not a single disease. It includes multiple types, each with different characteristics, growth patterns, and treatment responses. 

• Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): This is the most common type of breast cancer, making up approximately 8 out of 10 invasive cases. IDC begins in the milk ducts (which carry milk from the lobules to the nipple) and breaks through the duct walls to invade surrounding tissue. With time, it can spread to the lymph nodes and other organs. IDC often presents as a firm lump and is usually detected on a mammogram or during a physical exam. Treatment generally involves surgery, followed by chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy, depending on the tumor's characteristics.
• Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): ILC starts in the lobules, the milk-producing glands, and then spreads to the surrounding tissue. It accounts for approximately 10% to 15% of invasive breast cancers. Unlike IDC, ILC may not form a distinct lump and can be harder to detect on imaging. It often causes a thickening or fullness in one part of the breast. Treatment for ILC is similar to IDC and may include surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, and sometimes chemotherapy.
• Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): DCIS is a non-invasive form of breast cancer. It starts in the milk ducts but hasn't spread to surrounding tissues. While DCIS itself isn't life-threatening, it can develop into invasive cancer if not treated. It's usually found during routine screening and often has no symptoms. Treatment typically includes breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy), often followed by radiation therapy.
• Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC): Triple-negative breast cancer lacks estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and HER2 protein, making it more challenging to treat using conventional hormonal or targeted therapies. It's more aggressive, has a higher chance of recurrence, and is more common in women under 40 and those of African or South Asian descent. Treatment mainly relies on chemotherapy, but recent advances in immunotherapy have improved options for eligible patients.
• HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: HER2-positive breast cancers overexpress the HER2 protein, resulting in rapid cell growth. HER2-positive cancers tend to grow faster than HER2-negative types. Fortunately, targeted therapies such as trastuzumab (Herceptin) and pertuzumab (Perjeta) have significantly improved outcomes for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer. These drugs block the HER2 protein and are usually used in combination with chemotherapy or surgery.
• Hormone Receptor-Positive (HR+) Breast Cancer: This type of breast cancer grows in response to hormones like estrogen or progesterone. It accounts for a large proportion of breast cancers, especially in postmenopausal women. HR+ cancers respond well to hormonal therapies such as tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors, which either block the hormones or lower hormone levels in the body. These treatments can be given for 5 to 10 years after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Other Types of Breast Cancer

• Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS): Although not considered a true cancer, LCIS is a marker for increased breast cancer risk. It involves abnormal cell growth in the lobules and is usually discovered incidentally during a biopsy. While LCIS doesn't typically require surgical removal, patients are advised to undergo regular monitoring, and in some cases, preventive therapy may be recommended.
• Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC): IBC is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that causes the breast to look red, swollen, and inflamed, rather than forming a distinct lump. IBC develops when cancer cells block lymph vessels in the skin. It progresses rapidly and often reaches an advanced stage before diagnosis. Treatment of IBC begins with chemotherapy, followed by surgery and radiation. Early and aggressive management is crucial for improving outcomes.
• Paget's Disease of the Breast: This uncommon form impacts the skin of the nipple and areola. It often appears as eczema-like changes such as redness, flaking, or crusting, and may be associated with underlying DCIS or invasive cancer. Treatment involves surgery and may be followed by radiation or systemic therapy, depending on the extent of the disease.
• Metastatic Breast Cancer (Stage IV): Also known as advanced or secondary breast cancer, metastatic breast cancer occurs when the cancer has spread beyond the breast and nearby lymph nodes to organs such as the bones, lungs, liver, or brain. While it is not considered curable, it is manageable with long-term treatment, including chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted drugs, and immunotherapy. Many patients live for several years with a good quality of life.

Each type of breast cancer is unique in its behavior and treatment response. That's why oncologists personalize treatment plans based on the cancer subtype, stage, and patient-specific factors.

What are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer? 

Breast cancer does not always show signs in its early stages, which is why regular screening plays a crucial role in early detection. However, as the disease progresses, noticeable changes can appear. Recognizing these warning signs and acting early can significantly improve treatment success and survival outcomes.

Some of the common symptoms associated with breast cancer are:

• A Lump in the Breast: A common sign is the development of a new lump or mass in the breast or armpit. While not all lumps are cancerous, any new, hard, or painless lump should be checked by a specialist.
• Change in Breast Size/Shape: If you notice sudden changes in the size, contour, or symmetry of your breasts, especially in one breast, it could signal abnormal tissue growth. These changes may be subtle at first, but tend to become more noticeable over time.
• Skin Changes on the Breast: Redness, dimpling, puckering, or thickening of the breast skin can sometimes resemble the texture of an orange peel. These may be signs of an aggressive form of cancer, like inflammatory breast cancer.
• Nipple Discharge: Discharge from the nipple, especially if it is bloody, clear, or occurs without squeezing, should not be ignored. While some discharge is harmless, it can also be an early symptom of a tumor within the milk ducts.
• Nipple Inversion or Retraction: If the nipple suddenly turns inward or becomes flattened, it could be due to changes in the underlying tissue caused by cancer. This is particularly concerning when it affects only one nipple.
• Breast or Nipple Pain: Breast cancer is not usually painful in the early stages, but constant pain or discomfort in one specific area could indicate an underlying issue. Ache that persists or worsens over time should be evaluated.
• Swelling or Lumps in the Armpit: Swollen lymph nodes under the arm could be a sign that the tumor has spread beyond the breast tissue. Even without a noticeable lump in the breast, this could be the first sign of the disease.
• Unexplained Weight Loss or Fatigue: When breast cancer spreads or becomes more advanced, it may cause symptoms like sudden weight loss, extreme fatigue, or a general feeling of being unwell. These systemic symptoms may occur later in the disease.

Every woman's body is different, and not all symptoms mean cancer. However, if any of these signs persist for more than a few weeks, it's vital to seek medical attention. Early detection saves lives.

What are the Treatment Options for Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is no longer a one-size-fits-all disease. Today, treatment is tailored to each individual based on the type of breast cancer, its stage, the patient's age and health status, and whether the cancer has spread. Doctors use a combination of therapies to destroy tumor cells, reduce the risk of recurrence, and maintain quality of life.

The primary treatment options available are:

Surgery

Surgery is the first line of breast cancer treatment. The goal is to remove the tumor and, if necessary, nearby lymph nodes. There are two main types:

• Lumpectomy: Only the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue are removed. It is considered a breast-conserving surgery.
• Mastectomy: The entire breast is removed. In some cases, both breasts are removed as a preventive measure, especially in high-risk patients.

In some cases, reconstructive surgery is offered after mastectomy to restore the breast's appearance.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses potent drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It can be given before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to kill any remaining cells. Chemotherapy is often used for aggressive cancers or those that have spread beyond the breast. The number of cycles and drug combinations varies depending on the type of cancer and the patient's condition.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays/beams to target and kill cancer cells in specific areas. It is most commonly used after lumpectomy to reduce the risk of local recurrence. Radiation may also be used after mastectomy in certain high-risk cases or to treat cancer that has spread to bones or the brain.

Hormonal Therapy

Also known as endocrine therapy, this treatment is used for hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancers. It works by blocking the body's capability to produce hormones, such as estrogen, or by interfering with their effects on cancer cells. Common drugs include tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors. Hormonal therapy is usually taken for five to ten years following initial treatment.

Targeted Therapy

This treatment utilizes drugs that target specific proteins in the tumor, such as the HER2 protein. It is used when breast cancer overexpresses specific receptors that drive tumor growth. Drugs such as trastuzumab (Herceptin) and pertuzumab are examples of targeted therapies that have significantly improved outcomes in HER2-positive breast cancers.

Immunotherapy

Although still relatively new in breast cancer, immunotherapy has shown promise for specific subtypes like triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). It helps the body's immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Drugs like checkpoint inhibitors may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy for eligible patients.

These treatments are often used in combination to maximize success. The choice of treatment modality depends on certain factors, and in India, a multidisciplinary tumor board typically creates a personalized plan for each patient.

What is the Breast Cancer Treatment Protocol in India?

The treatment protocol for breast cancer in India follows globally accepted oncology standards, including NCCN and ESMO guidelines. Patients benefit from a personalized treatment pathway developed through a multidisciplinary team approach. Each case is managed with the aim of achieving the highest chance of cure or long-term disease control with minimal side effects.

Neoadjuvant Therapy (If Applicable)

For patients with large tumors, lymph node involvement, or aggressive subtypes like triple-negative or HER2-positive cancers, neoadjuvant therapy is often the first step. It helps shrink the tumor before surgery and improves surgical outcomes.

• Chemotherapy Regimens:
  • AC (Adriamycin + Cyclophosphamide) followed by Paclitaxel or Docetaxel
  • FEC (Fluorouracil + Epirubicin + Cyclophosphamide)
• Targeted Additions (if HER2-positive):
  • Trastuzumab (Herceptin) ± Pertuzumab (Perjeta)
• Immunotherapy (if TNBC):
  • Atezolizumab or Pembrolizumab with chemotherapy

Patients undergo 4 to 6 cycles over 3 to 4 months, with regular imaging to assess tumor response.

Surgery

Surgery follows neoadjuvant therapy or maybe the first line of treatment in early-stage cancers. The choice of surgery depends on the tumor's size, location, and the patient's preference.

• Lumpectomy (Breast-Conserving Procedure)
• Modified Radical Mastectomy (removal of the entire breast tissue and lymph nodes)
• Skin- or Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy (for reconstruction candidates)

Lymph node status is evaluated using Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB) or complete axillary dissection, as needed.

Post-Surgical Therapy (Adjuvant Therapy)

Once the tumor and surrounding breast tissue are removed, additional treatments are used to destroy microscopic cancer cells and prevent recurrence.

Radiation Therapy

• Used after lumpectomy or in high-risk mastectomy cases
• Standard techniques: IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy), 3D-CRT, or SBRT
• Typical duration: 5–6 weeks of daily sessions

Chemotherapy

• Adjuvant chemo is used if the cancer is high-grade, lymph node-positive, or triple-negative.
• Same regimens as neoadjuvant: AC-T, TC (Docetaxel + Cyclophosphamide), or CMF (Cyclophosphamide + Methotrexate + Fluorouracil)

Hormonal Therapy

• Given to hormone receptor-positive (ER+/PR+) patients
• Premenopausal patients: Tamoxifen (5–10 years)
• Postmenopausal patients: Aromatase inhibitors (Anastrozole, Letrozole, or Exemestane)

Targeted Therapy

• For HER2-positive cancers:
  • Trastuzumab (Herceptin) for 1 year (standard)
  • Pertuzumab (added in some high-risk patients)
  • Neratinib (optional extended therapy after trastuzumab)

Immunotherapy (Selective Use)

• For triple-negative breast cancer, especially in metastatic or PD-L1-positive tumors
  • Pembrolizumab or Atezolizumab with nab-paclitaxel

Maintenance and Surveillance Phase

After the completion of active treatment, patients are placed on long-term monitoring, which includes:

• Follow-up schedules: Every 3 months in year one, then every 6–12 months
• Imaging: Annual mammograms, ultrasounds, or MRIs if needed
• Lab tests: Hormone levels and tumor markers, if metastatic
• Continued therapy: Ongoing hormonal therapy or targeted therapy in some cases

Lifestyle guidance, psychological support, and dietary counseling are also integrated into this phase.

Breast Cancer Treatment Cost in India

For early-stage breast cancer treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, the total treatment cost in India typically ranges between ₹2,50,000 to ₹7,50,000 ($3,000 to $9,000). For advanced stages requiring targeted or immunotherapy, the price may vary from ₹10,00,000 to ₹15,00,000 ($12,000 – $17,000) or more. The total cost varies depending on the type of treatment required, the hospital chosen, the stage of the cancer, and the length of hospital stay.

Surgery Cost

The cost of breast cancer surgery depends on the type of procedure performed. A lumpectomy, which preserves most of the breast, typically costs between ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,80,000 ($1,200 – $2,200). In comparison, a mastectomy ranges from ₹1,50,000 – ₹2,50,000 ($1,800 – $3,000). If breast reconstruction is included, the overall cost may be higher based on the reconstruction technique used.

Chemotherapy Cost

Chemotherapy is typically administered in cycles, and the cost depends on the specific drug combination and the number of cycles required. On average, a single cycle of chemotherapy in India costs around ₹30,000 – ₹75,000 ($350 – $900). The total cost for a complete chemotherapy regimen (usually 6–8 cycles) can range between ₹2,00,000 – ₹5,50,000 ($2,400 – $6,500).

Radiation Therapy Cost

Breast cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy may require 25–30 sessions over a few weeks. Techniques like IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy) or 3D-CRT are commonly used. The complete course of radiation therapy typically costs between ₹1,50,000 – ₹3,00,000 ($1,800 – $3,600).

Targeted Therapy Cost

HER2-positive breast cancers often require targeted therapy with drugs like trastuzumab (Herceptin) or pertuzumab. These are typically administered for up to one year. The monthly cost for trastuzumab ranges from ₹80,000 to ₹1,20,000 ($950 – $1,450), while combination therapy with pertuzumab may increase costs to ₹2,00,000 to ₹2,50,000 ($2,400 – $3,000) per cycle. The total cost of targeted therapy for one year can exceed ₹15,00,000 ($18,000).

Hormonal Therapy Cost

For hormone receptor-positive breast cancers, hormonal therapy is a long-term treatment. Monthly medications, such as tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors, cost between ₹1,000 and ₹3,000 ($12 – $36). Over 5–10 years, the cumulative cost may range from ₹60,000 – ₹2,00,000 ($700 – $2,400).

Immunotherapy Cost

Immunotherapy is used selectively for patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) or metastatic disease. Drugs like pembrolizumab or atezolizumab cost between ₹2,50,000 and ₹5,00,000 ($3,000 – $6,000) per dose, and patients may need multiple doses over several months, depending on the treatment response and clinical status.

Diagnostic and Supportive Service Costs

Additional costs for PET scans, MRIs, blood work, port insertion, and hospital stay may total ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000 ($600 – $1,200) across the treatment cycle. Supportive medications for nausea, pain relief, and immune support may incur additional minor expenses.

Breast Cancer Treatment Cost Comparison: India vs Other Countries

India has become a preferred destination for onco care, especially among patients from the Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia, and Europe. One of the key reasons is the significant cost advantage it offers compared to countries with similar medical standards. While Indian hospitals use modern equipment and internationally approved treatment protocols, the overall expenses are much lower.

Below is a detailed comparison of breast cancer treatment costs across major medical destinations:

• Surgery Costs: In the United States, a lumpectomy or mastectomy can cost between $15,000 – $35,000, depending on whether reconstruction is involved. In contrast, the same surgical procedures in India range from $1,200 – $3,000, making it nearly 80% more affordable without compromising on surgical expertise or hospital infrastructure.
• Chemotherapy Costs: Chemotherapy in the UK or the US can cost between $2,000 – $4,000 per cycle, depending on the drugs used. With 6–8 cycles, the total can exceed $20,000 – $25,000. In India, each cycle typically costs $350 – $900, bringing the full treatment range to just $2,400 – $6,500.
• Radiation Therapy Costs: In countries such as Australia and Germany, a complete radiation therapy course (IMRT or 3D-CRT) typically costs between $8,000 and $12,000. In India, similar techniques are available at $1,800 – $3,600, often in leading cancer hospitals equipped with modern linear accelerators.
• Targeted Therapy Costs: Drugs like trastuzumab (Herceptin) are expensive everywhere, but the overall cost of therapy in India is much lower due to competitive pricing and access to generics. A year-long treatment for HER2-positive patients in the US may cost between $70,000 and $100,000, whereas in India, it ranges from $18,000 to $30,000, including the cost of the drug, consultations, and infusions.
• Immunotherapy Costs: Immunotherapy drugs, such as pembrolizumab or atezolizumab, cost upwards of $10,000 per dose in countries like the United States. In India, the same therapies are available at $3,000 – $6,000 per dose, resulting in a dramatic cost difference for long-term immunotherapy regimens.
• Hormonal Therapy Costs: Ongoing hormonal therapy costs in India are among the lowest in the world, ranging from $12 to $36 per month. In contrast, monthly drug prices in the UK or UAE can exceed $100 to $300, particularly for brand-name prescriptions.

Total Treatment Package Cost

• USA: $50,000 – $120,000
• UK: $40,000 – $100,000
• UAE: $30,000 – $80,000
• India: $3,000 to $9,000

What are the Factors Affecting the Cost of Breast Cancer Treatment?

The cost of breast cancer treatment is not fixed. It can vary from one patient to another due to several factors that influence it. Knowing what affects the price can help international patients better plan their medical journey and make informed financial decisions.

• Stage of the Disease: The stage at which breast cancer is diagnosed has a direct impact on treatment expenses. Early-stage cancers may only require surgery and limited therapy, resulting in relatively low costs. Advanced or metastatic breast cancer, however, often involves a combination of chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, and sometimes immunotherapy, raising the overall cost substantially.
• Type of Breast Cancer: Certain types of breast cancer, such as HER2-positive or triple-negative subtypes, demand more specialized and expensive treatments. These subtypes often involve the use of high-cost drugs, such as trastuzumab, pertuzumab, or immunotherapy agents, which can significantly increase treatment expenditures.
• Chosen Treatment Modalities: The cost depends on whether the treatment includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, or a combination of these. Each modality carries its own price range. For instance, targeted therapies and immunotherapies are more expensive than conventional chemotherapy or hormonal treatments.
• Number of Therapy Cycles Required: Chemotherapy and immunotherapy are typically administered in multiple cycles, with the number of sessions varying based on the patient's response to treatment and their overall condition. More cycles result in a higher cumulative cost, especially when expensive drugs are used.
• Hospital Infrastructure and Accreditation: Treatment costs vary depending on the type of hospital chosen. Private hospitals with advanced infrastructure and international accreditation may charge more than smaller, local facilities. However, they also provide higher standards of care, international patient services, and access to experienced oncologists.
• Doctor's Experience and Specialization: Highly reputed oncologists or surgical specialists may have slightly higher consultation and procedure fees. However, their expertise often ensures better treatment outcomes and reduced complications, which can ultimately lead to long-term cost savings.
• Duration of Hospital Stay: The number of days a patient stays in the hospital, particularly for surgery and post-treatment care, can significantly impact the total cost of treatment. Longer stays for recovery or complication management will add to room charges and supportive care costs.
• Need for Reconstruction or Cosmetic Procedures: If the patient opts for breast reconstruction surgery after mastectomy, the cost can increase. The choice of reconstruction method (implant-based or flap surgery) will determine the extent of added expense.
• Supportive Medications and Tests: Supportive medications for nausea, immune system support, and pain management, along with diagnostic scans such as PET-CT or MRI, can contribute to the total cost. Regular blood tests and follow-ups also carry additional charges during and after treatment.
• Currency Exchange and Travel-Related Costs: For international patients, the cost may also be affected by currency exchange rates, travel expenses, visa fees, accommodation, and food. 

Why Choose India for Breast Cancer Treatment?

India has rapidly emerged as one of the most sought-after destinations for breast cancer care. Beyond affordability, the country offers a seamless blend of medical expertise, cutting-edge treatment options, and holistic patient care. Some of the compelling reasons why thousands of international patients place their trust in India for breast cancer treatment are:

• Advanced Treatment Options with Global Standards: Indian oncology centers adhere to global cancer guidelines, such as those from the NCCN and ESMO, ensuring that every patient receives evidence-based care. Whether it's precision-based radiation therapy, complex breast reconstruction, or molecularly targeted treatment, the protocols match those followed in the top hospitals of the USA or Europe.
• Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Care: Cancer treatment in India is not delivered in isolation. Patients benefit from the coordinated expertise of oncologists, breast surgeons, radiation specialists, pathologists, and supportive care teams. 
• Access to High-End Technology: Modern hospitals in India are equipped with some of the most advanced technologies, including linear accelerators for radiation therapy, digital mammography, PET-CT scanners, and robotic surgery systems.
• Minimal Waiting Times: Unlike many public health systems abroad, where patients often face lengthy waiting periods for surgery or chemotherapy, India offers prompt scheduling. From consultation to treatment initiation, the process is streamlined, saving valuable time in the fight against the disease.
• English-Speaking Medical Teams: For international patients, language barriers can be a concern. In India, most medical professionals speak fluent English, making it easy for patients to communicate their concerns, understand their treatment, and actively participate in decision-making.
• Personalized International Patient Services: Leading hospitals have dedicated international patient departments that handle everything, from visa assistance and airport pickup to translators, hotel coordination, and post-treatment care planning. 
• Affordable Long-Term Follow-Up: Breast cancer treatment often includes years of follow-up care. India offers not just affordable initial treatment but also cost-effective long-term management, whether through teleconsultations, hormonal therapy prescriptions, or annual screenings.

International Patient Testimonials

"I Felt Safe Every Step of the Way" – Zahra M., Sierra Leone

When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, my family and I were worried about both the cost and quality of treatment. We found Dr. Ankur Bahl through an online patient support group. From the first video consultation, he explained everything with such patience and clarity. At Fortis Gurgaon, I received chemotherapy and targeted therapy. Every nurse, every staff member made me feel at home. I'm now back in Kenya with a clear scan and endless gratitude.

"A World-Class Experience at Half the Price" – Sofia L., Romania

My treatment options in Europe were too expensive and came with long waiting times. After some research, I chose India and was introduced to Dr. Ankur Bahl at Fortis Memorial Research Institute. The hospital's international patient desk handled all my logistics. I underwent surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy. Everything was done on time, professionally, and with compassion. I saved thousands of euros and received better care than I imagined.

"From Confusion to Confidence" – Maria N., Oman

I had never traveled alone before, let alone for cancer treatment. However, Dr. Bahl and his team made me feel secure from the very beginning. At Fortis Gurgaon, my entire treatment plan was personalized. I appreciated how they combined Western protocols with a patient-first approach. I returned home not just healed physically but also emotionally stronger. Choosing India was the best decision I made.