HOME >  BLOGS >  Average Cost of Immunotherapy 

Immunotherapy Cost in India: A Complete Guide

AUTHOR :

Kolhapur Cancer Centre

Book an appointment with best cancer specialist in Kolhapur

Immunotherapy, a groundbreaking cancer treatment, has become increasingly popular worldwide, including in India. The cost of immunotherapy in India is significantly more affordable compared to other countries, making it a preferred choice for many patients. 

On average, a single session costs between ₹1,50,000 and ₹4,00,000. However, the total expense depends on several factors, such as the type of cancer, frequency of treatment, and the hospital chosen.

This guide will help you understand how immunotherapy works, explore the cost structure in India, and provide tips to choose the best treatment plan for yourself or a loved one.

We’ll also share patient experiences, insurance options, and highlight leading cancer hospitals in major Indian cities.

Now, let’s break it down step by step.

Immunotherapy Cost in India: A Complete Guide

In this article

  • What is Immunotherapy?
  • Immunotherapy Cost in India: An Overview
  • Top Hospitals Offering Immunotherapy in India
  • Insurance and Financial Support Options
  • Patient Testimonials and Case Studies
  • How to Choose the Right Immunotherapy Treatment Plan?
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  • Conclusion

For any cancer related query, concern or help, just call us

What is Immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that helps your immune system fight cancer cells. Think of the immune system as a security team that protects your body.

Sometimes, cancer cells disguise themselves to avoid detection. Immunotherapy “trains” or boosts the immune system to recognize and attack these cells.

Unlike chemotherapy or radiation, which target cancer cells directly, immunotherapy works by strengthening the body’s natural defenses.

This makes it a tailored, cutting-edge option for many types of cancers, including lung, skin (melanoma), breast, and blood cancer.

How Immunotherapy Works

Immunotherapy uses special drugs or treatments to either:

      • Boost the immune system overall, so it can efficiently identify and fight cancer.
          
      • Target specific markers (proteins) on cancer cells, helping the immune system focus its attack without harming normal cells.

For example, in checkpoint inhibitor therapy, drugs remove the “brakes” cancer puts on the immune system, allowing your body to fight back more effectively.

Types of Immunotherapy Used in Cancer Treatment

 

      • Monoclonal Antibodies – These are lab-made immune proteins that attach to cancer cells.
         
      • Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors – They release the immune system’s brakes to enhance its response.
         
      • CAR-T Cell Therapy – A method where your immune cells are modified in a lab to attack cancer.
         
      • Cancer Vaccines – These help your body learn to recognize and destroy cancer cells.
         
      • Cytokine Therapy – It uses proteins to boost the immune response.

        Each type of immunotherapy treatment is used based on the nature and stage of the cancer.

Immunotherapy Cost in India: An Overview

→ Average Cost of Immunotherapy per Session

On average, a single session of immunotherapy in India costs between ₹1,50,000 to ₹4,00,000. Some treatments, such as CAR-T cell therapy, might cost more due to their advanced nature. For specific cancers, sessions might number between 4 and 12 per year.

→ Monthly and Annual Cost Estimates

Considering multiple sessions, monthly expenses may range from ₹3,00,000 to ₹5,00,000. Annual costs for immunotherapy in India can range between ₹20,00,000 and ₹50,00,000, depending on the treatment type and duration.

Factors Affecting Immunotherapy Cost

      • Type of Immunotherapy – Advanced therapies like CAR-T tend to cost more.
         
      • Cancer Type and Stage – Certain cancers may require more frequent treatments.
         
      • Hospital Location and Infrastructure – Costs vary across cities and hospitals.
         
      • Patient’s Condition – A stronger immune system might need fewer sessions.

Cost Comparison in India Across Different Cities

The cost of immunotherapy in India varies across major cities due to factors such as hospital infrastructure, expert availability, and regional economic differences. Below is a general cost breakdown per session:

      • Mumbai: ₹1,60,000–₹4,20,000 
         
      • Delhi: ₹1,50,000–₹4,00,000 
         
      • Bengaluru: ₹1,40,000–₹3,80,000 
         
      • Chennai: ₹1,30,000–₹3,70,000 
         
      • Kolkata: ₹1,20,000–₹3,50,000 

Patients may choose cities based on their proximity, preferred best cancer hospital in Kolhapur, or specific budget requirements. Despite the variations, India maintains its position as an affordable option for high-quality cancer treatment.

→ Why India is a Preferred Destination for Affordable Cancer Treatment

 

      • Skilled Oncologists – Indian doctors are globally renowned for their expertise.
         
      • Affordable Treatments – Costs are 3–5 times lower than in Western countries.
         
      • World-class Hospitals – Advanced facilities with cutting-edge technology.
         
      • Medical Tourism Packages – International patients benefit from complete care solutions, including visa support and affordable accommodation.

Top Hospitals Offering Immunotherapy in India

      • Delhi: AIIMS, Medanta – The Medicity
         
      • Mumbai: Tata Memorial Hospital, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital
         
      • Bangalore: Narayana Health, Manipal Hospitals
         
      • Chennai: Apollo Cancer Institute, Fortis Malar Hospital
         
      • Kolhapur: Kolhapur Cancer Centre

Accreditation and Quality of Care

Most top hospitals in India are accredited by NABH and JCI, ensuring adherence to international standards in patient care and safety.

In case of any assistance, please call us on

Insurance and Financial Support Options

→ Is Immunotherapy Covered Under Indian Health Insurance?

Yes, many health insurance policies now cover immunotherapy. However, ensure you check the policy terms, as coverage often varies by cancer type and treatment.

→ Government Schemes and NGO Support for Cancer Patients

 

      • Ayushman Bharat Scheme offers cashless cancer treatments for eligible patients.
         
      • NGOs like CanKids and Indian Cancer Society provide financial and emotional support.

Patient Testimonials and Case Studies

→ Real-life Experiences with Immunotherapy in India

Many patients have experienced life-changing results with immunotherapy in India. For example, Anuradha, a 45-year-old breast cancer patient, found that immunotherapy gave her a better quality of life with fewer side effects compared to chemotherapy.

→ Treatment Outcomes and Recovery Costs

Immunotherapy has shown significant success, especially in advanced skin and lung cancers. Patients often report fewer side effects, quicker recovery, and longer survival rates.  

Advanced Cancer Care

1,00,000+ Patients

20+ Expert Oncologists

How to Choose the Right Immunotherapy Treatment Plan?

→ Consultation with Oncologists
 

Always consult a certified oncologist to understand which immunotherapy option suits your specific cancer type and stage.

→ Personalized Cancer Treatment Plans in India
 

Leading hospitals in India offer tailored treatment plans, combining immunotherapy with other treatments like surgery or chemotherapy where necessary. Personalized plans improve success rates and optimize costs.

Immunotherapy offers a beacon of hope for cancer patients by using the body’s natural defenses to fight the disease. India has emerged as a global leader in providing affordable, high-quality immunotherapy treatments.

With the right guidance, financial support, and access to top-tier hospitals, you or a loved one can access this revolutionary treatment while keeping the costs manageable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How long does each immunotherapy session take?

A typical immunotherapy session lasts 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the drug used and your individual response.

Q2. Are there any side effects of immunotherapy?

Yes, side effects may include fatigue, skin rashes, fever, or inflammation, but they are usually milder than chemotherapy side effects.

Q3. Can immunotherapy be used as a standalone treatment?

In some cancers, yes—but it’s often combined with chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery for better outcomes.

Conclusion

Immunotherapy represents a groundbreaking advancement in cancer treatment, offering renewed hope and improved outcomes for patients worldwide. 

India’s leadership in providing cost-effective and high-quality care ensures that this innovative therapy is accessible to many. By exploring options and seeking expert guidance, patients can take a significant step towards recovery and a healthier future.

If you have any further queries, please write to us.



    Related Blog