Targeted Therapy for Cancer in India

Targeted therapy is a precision oncology treatment designed to block cancer cell growth based on specific genes and proteins. In India, the average cost of targeted therapy ranges from $1,800 to $5,000 USD per cycle, whereas similar treatment in the USA may cost $12,000–$20,000 or $8,000–$12,000 in Singapore/Thailand. India offers the same FDA-approved drugs and protocols at a significantly reduced cost, guided by experts like Dr. Ankur Bahl.

What is targeted therapy and how does it work?

Targeted therapy is a form of cancer treatment that uses drugs designed to precisely identify and attack cancer cells by targeting specific molecules (like proteins or genes) involved in tumor growth and survival—without harming normal cells.

Unlike traditional chemotherapy that affects all rapidly dividing cells, targeted therapy blocks signals that allow cancer cells to grow, often leading to more effective outcomes with fewer side effects.

How is targeted therapy different from chemotherapy?

While both therapies aim to destroy cancer, they differ in how they work:

What types of cancers can be treated with targeted therapy?

Targeted therapy is increasingly used across various solid tumors and blood cancers, especially when standard treatments are ineffective or unavailable.

Cancers Commonly Treated with Targeted Therapy in India:

• Breast cancer (HER2-positive)
• Lung cancer (EGFR, ALK, ROS1 mutations)
• Colorectal cancer (KRAS wild-type)
• Stomach (gastric) cancer (HER2, VEGF pathways)
• Liver cancer (VEGFR-targeted agents)
• Kidney cancer
• Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML)
• Lymphoma and multiple myeloma

What types of targeted therapy drugs are available in India?

India offers a wide range of FDA-approved and biosimilar targeted therapies at much lower costs than in many Western countries.

Commonly Used Targeted Drugs:

• Trastuzumab (Herceptin) – HER2-positive breast/stomach cancer
• Bevacizumab (Avastin) – Anti-angiogenic agent
• Imatinib (Gleevec) – CML, GIST
• Gefitinib, Osimertinib – EGFR-mutated lung cancer
• Rituximab – Lymphoma
• Sunitinib, Sorafenib – Renal and liver cancers
• Palbociclib, Lenvatinib, Regorafenib – Advanced solid tumors

These medications are administered as IV infusions or oral tablets, based on the drug type and disease stage.

How is a patient evaluated for targeted therapy in India?

Before targeted therapy can be initiated, Indian oncologists follow a strict evaluation process to confirm the patient's eligibility and ensure that the therapy will be effective.

Evaluation Process Includes:

• Biopsy & Histopathology – Confirm cancer type
• Molecular Testing – Identify gene mutations or protein overexpression (e.g., EGFR, ALK, HER2, KRAS)
• Immunohistochemistry (IHC) – To detect specific markers
• Genetic Panels/NGS (Next-Gen Sequencing) – For advanced cancers
• PET-CT/MRI – For disease staging and treatment planning

These tests help ensure that the selected drug targets the exact molecular abnormality in the tumor, improving treatment success rates.

What is the standard treatment protocol followed?

India follows internationally accepted protocols such as NCCN, ASCO, and ESMO guidelines, with personalization based on tumor genetics and patient health.

General Treatment Protocol:

• Patient screening using biomarker testing
• Treatment planning by a multidisciplinary team (MDT)
• Administration of targeted drug (oral or IV) every 2–4 weeks
• Periodic monitoring via blood tests, imaging, or molecular profiling
• Adjustment of drug or combination therapy if disease progresses

Patients with responsive cancers may continue therapy long-term (6 months to several years), with close side-effect monitoring.

Why is India a preferred destination for targeted cancer therapy?

India has emerged as a global hub for precision oncology, offering technologically advanced, low-cost treatment to international patients.

Key Advantages:

• Cost savings of 60–80% compared to US/Europe
• Access to all latest FDA/EMA-approved targeted drugs
• Board-certified oncologists with global training
• Fast-track evaluations and therapy initiation
• World-class hospitals with JCI/NABH accreditation
• Personalized attention for foreign patients through dedicated coordinators

Why choose Dr. Ankur Bahl for targeted therapy treatment?

Dr. Ankur Bahl is one of India’s most recognized medical oncologists, known for his excellence in precision cancer care and targeted therapy strategies.

Why Foreign Patients Prefer Dr. Bahl:

• 18+ years of experience in targeted and immunotherapy
• Specialization in molecular-based cancer treatment
• Spearheaded clinical trials and global case management
• Offers teleconsultation before travel and remote follow-up
• Backed by a strong clinical team for personalized dosing and monitoring
• Fluent English communication and international patient experience

Patients trust him for clinical accuracy, compassionate care, and ethical transparency.

What devices and delivery methods are used in India?

India’s top oncology hospitals are equipped with modern infrastructure and drug delivery systems to ensure safe and efficient administration of targeted therapy.

Delivery Methods:

• Intravenous (IV) Infusion Pumps – Used for drugs like Trastuzumab, Rituximab
• Oral Targeted Drugs – Tablets or capsules (e.g., Imatinib, Osimertinib, Lenvatinib)
• Pre-filled Syringes/Subcutaneous Injections – For drugs like Herceptin SC
• Central line/Port catheter access – For long-term infusions

Advanced devices include:

• Smart infusion pumps with dosage control
• Cold chain systems for biologic drug storage
• Daycare chemotherapy units designed for comfort and infection control

What is the cost breakdown of targeted therapy treatment in India?

India offers high-quality targeted therapies at significantly lower costs compared to Western nations. Here's a detailed cost breakdown:

Estimated Cost Structure (in USD):

Cost varies depending on the type of cancer, drug used, and treatment duration.

How does the cost compare with countries like the US, UK, and Thailand?

India offers massive cost advantages while using the same branded or biosimilar drugs as in top hospitals worldwide.

In India, foreign patients receive the same quality care with shorter waiting times and personalized service.

What is the typical duration and frequency of targeted therapy?

The duration of targeted therapy depends on:

• Type and stage of cancer
• Response to treatment
• Presence of genetic mutations

General Timeline:

• 1 cycle = 3–4 weeks
• Number of cycles: Typically 6 to 12 for early-stage or up to continuous therapy for advanced/metastatic cancer
• Monitoring every 2–3 cycles with blood work and imaging

Patients with good response may continue therapy for months to several years, especially in chronic conditions like CML or metastatic breast cancer.

What are the side effects of targeted therapy and how are they managed?

Targeted therapy generally causes fewer side effects than chemotherapy, but some issues may still arise depending on the drug used and the patient’s health.

Common Side Effects:

• Skin rash or dryness (especially with EGFR inhibitors)
• Diarrhea and nausea
• Fatigue or joint pain
• High blood pressure (with VEGF inhibitors)
• Liver enzyme elevation
• Risk of blood clots (rare)

Management in Indian Hospitals:

• Routine monitoring of blood counts and liver/kidney function
• Dose adjustment or therapy breaks if side effects appear
• Supportive medications, nutrition guidance, and side effect counseling

Indian oncology centers provide 24/7 nursing, symptom control, and dedicated oncology pharmacists to help minimize discomfort.

What documentation is required for foreign patients seeking targeted therapy in India?

India is a well-established hub for international medical tourists, and most hospitals streamline the visa and treatment process for foreign nationals.

Required Documents:

• Valid passport
• Medical visa (not tourist visa)
• Medical reports (biopsy, PET-CT, molecular testing if done)
• Doctor’s prescription or treatment history
• Attendant passport copy (if someone is accompanying)
• Any insurance or embassy letters if applicable

The hospital will provide a Visa Invitation Letter, assist with airport transfers, and arrange accommodation and translators if needed.

How can a foreign patient begin targeted therapy under Dr. Ankur Bahl?

Starting treatment under Dr. Ankur Bahl, one of India’s leading oncologists in precision medicine, is simple and structured for foreign patients.

Step-by-Step Process:

• Email your medical reports for initial review
• Book a video consultation with Dr. Bahl
• Receive a treatment plan, estimated cost, and duration
• Obtain a visa invitation letter from the hospital
• Apply for a medical visa at your local Indian consulate
• Fly to India; receive airport pickup and personalized car
• Begin your targeted therapy with full support
• Continue remote follow-ups after returning home

Dr. Bahl’s team ensures complete assistance — from documents to post-treatment monitoring.

Final Summary and Call to Action

Targeted therapy represents the future of cancer treatment — highly effective, personalized, and less toxic than traditional chemotherapy. In India, this modern approach is accessible, affordable, and delivered by renowned oncologists like Dr. Ankur Bahl using globally accepted treatment protocols.

Why Choose India for Targeted Therapy:

• FDA/WHO-approved cancer drugs
• 60–80% cost savings
• Expert doctors and fast-tracked treatment plans
• JCI-accredited hospitals and patient coordinators
• Multilingual care and teleconsultation options

Why Dr. Ankur Bahl:

• Expert in GI, lung, breast, and blood cancers
• Strong background in molecular oncology
• Compassionate, ethical, and globally trusted
• Accessible through video consultation worldwide

Take the First Step:
Send your reports today and receive a personalized assessment from one of India’s top oncology experts.

• Affordable.
• Advanced.
• Internationally Trusted.

Your journey toward precision cancer care starts here