Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment: What You Need to Know?

Understanding the costs associated with NHL treatment is crucial. It helps individuals plan and make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, a type of cancer affecting the lymphatic system, requires specialized medical attention, diagnostics, and treatment. The treatment costs for NHL in India vary widely and depend on several factors. These factors include the type and stage of the cancer, the specific treatment protocol recommended by the doctor, the hospital chosen for treatment, the patient’s overall health condition, and the duration of treatment.

NHL treatment typically involves various procedures, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, stem cell transplant, and sometimes surgery. Each treatment method incurs specific costs that contribute to the overall expenses.

This blog aims to discuss the diverse Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Treatment Cost In India and guide individuals through this crucial information.

What is a Lymphatic System?

A lymphatic system is a complex network of tubes (lymphatic vessels), glands (or lymph nodes), and other organs, including the spleen. The vessels and glands hold a fluid called lymph. The lymphatic system has several functions. It drains waste products and excess fluid from different body parts and moves them to the bloodstream to be processed. It also conveys nutrients and cells.

The lymphatic system is part of the immune system, the body’s natural defense against infection. The lymph carries white blood cells called lymphocytes, which help fight infection. We have lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels throughout our body. The lymph nodes are often found in groups, particularly under the arms, neck, and groin.

What is Lymphoma?

Lymphoma is cancer of the lymphatic system, the body’s disease-fighting network. The lymph system comprises many cells and organs, including the lymph nodes, thymus gland, spleen, and liver. This system produces B-cell and T-cell lymphocytes, which include the immune system. Like blood vessels, lymphatic vessels are spread throughout the body. 

In lymphoma, lymphocytes multiply abnormally and collect in certain parts of the lymphatic system, such as the lymph nodes. Since these cells travel between the lymphatic and circulatory systems while fighting infections and viruses, lymphomas are blood-related cancers. The affected lymphocytes lose their infection-fighting properties, making you more vulnerable to infection.

With 17+ years of experience, Dr. Sachin Jadhav specializes in treating non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). He leads top BMT programs in India, helping patients with blood diseases. Dr. Jadhav’s expertise ensures effective care and advanced treatments, making him a trusted choice for NHL patients seeking quality healthcare.

What are the Causes of Lymphoma?

Cancer is ultimately the result of cells that uncontrollably grow and do not die. Normal cells follow an orderly path of growth, division, and death called programmed cell death (apoptosis). When this process breaks down, cancer results.

What are the Symptoms of Lymphoma?

Following are some of the symptoms of lymphoma;

• Swollen, painless lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin
• Unexplained weight loss
• Soaking night sweats
• Coughing trouble
• Breathing or chest pain
• Fatigue
• Feeling of fullness in the abdomen

What are the Diagnosis and Tests for Lymphoma?

• Physical examination: Swollen lymph nodes in your neck, underarms, and groin, and swollen spleen or liver are usually examined by doctors. A chest x-ray test is done to check the swollen lymph nodes.
• Biopsy: Biopsy is the only sure way to diagnose Lymphoma
• Excisional Biopsy: The entire lymph node is removed to diagnose lymphoma.
• Incisional Biopsy: Only a part of the Lymph node is removed to diagnose lymphoma.
• breathing or chest pain
• X-ray
• CT scan/CAT scan
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
• Gallium scan
• PET (positron emission tomography) scan
• Laboratory tests: Blood tests and urine tests

Dr. Sachin Suresh Jadhav leads advanced treatments for NHL, employing bone marrow transplants and innovative therapies, ensuring personalized care and successful outcomes for patients with this condition.

What is the Status of Lymphoma Treatment in India?

Medical tourism is rapidly spreading worldwide and for many people in the US, UK, and other Western countries. India has been their destination of choice for medical and health care. When you are being treated for cancer, you want a physician who is familiar with your particular disease. Yet, because many forms of lymphoma are rare, it can be challenging to find a doctor who has treated patients with the disease. 

In India, most hospitals have a multidisciplinary team that includes hematologists, radiation and medical oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, nuclear medicine physicians, nurses, and other relevant health professionals. Indian hospitals offer the most advanced diagnostic technologies and treatments available today. Indian doctors and hospitals have immense experience in handling lymphoma cases. Physicians in India are often known for their level of personal care and interaction with their patients.

Additionally, the NHL treatment cost in India remains relatively competitive, attracting patients from Western countries seeking affordable yet high-quality medical services.

What is the Variable Cost of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Treatment in India?

NHL Treatment Cost in India is approximately Rs 2.5 lakh. This treatment is valid for only six months and is quite affordable. This package also increases up to Rs 20 lakh if the patient needs some medicines and novel drugs. 

The cost also varies depending on the treatment. The overall cost of chemotherapy treatment in a single cycle is Rs 100000, and the price of a cycle treatment is Rs 600000. 

Radiation therapy costs Rs 1,25,000 for one cycle and Rs 2,50,000 for two. Chemotherapy is enough if the patient is in the earlier stage of cancer. But in the advanced stage, doctors always suggest transplantation treatment of bone marrow to cure the patient as fast as possible. The latest treatments can go up to Rs 2,70,0000 or USD 40,000. 

Mostly, from where do International Lymphoma Treatment Patients come to India?

The maximum number of patients for lymphoma treatment come from Kenya, Sudan, Nigeria, Somalia, Ethiopia, Tanzania, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Oman, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.

In conclusion, understanding the costs of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in India is crucial for making informed healthcare choices. This guide explores the NHL Treatment Cost in India and various diagnosis methods, offering insights into the current status of NHL treatment.