Blood Cancer Treatment in India for International Patients (Leukemia, Lymphoma, Myeloma)
Introduction: Why Patients Trust India for Blood Cancer Treatment
Blood cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma affect millions worldwide, often requiring advanced therapies like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, stem cell or bone marrow transplant. For international patients, the decision to choose a country for treatment depends on two crucial factors: affordability and quality of care.
India has emerged as one of the most trusted destinations for blood cancer treatment, attracting patients from Africa, the Gulf, CIS countries, and Southeast Asia. The reason is simple: India offers world-class medical care with internationally accredited hospitals, highly skilled oncologists, and cutting-edge technologies — at a fraction of the cost compared to the USA, UK, or UAE.
For example, a bone marrow transplant that may cost over $150,000 in the USA is available in India for just $25,000–$40,000. Similarly, leukemia and lymphoma treatments in India are priced at 60–80% lower, while ensuring international standards of safety and clinical excellence.
In addition, most Indian hospitals are NABH or JCI accredited, employ English-speaking staff, and provide personalized care packages that cover hospital stay, treatment, and patient support services. This balance of affordability + excellence makes India a hub for patients seeking advanced oncology treatments without compromising safety or success rates.
Cost of Blood Cancer Treatment in India (2025 Guide)
The cost of blood cancer treatment in India varies based on the cancer type, stage, treatment plan, and hospital. Here’s an overview:
Average Treatment Costs in India (for International Patients)
- Leukemia treatment in India: $8,000 – $25,000
- Lymphoma treatment in India: $10,000 – $28,000
- Myeloma treatment in India: $12,000 – $30,000
- Bone Marrow / Stem Cell Transplant: $25,000 – $45,000
- CAR-T Cell Therapy (when available): $40,000 – $60,000
🌍 Cost Comparison: India vs Other Countries
| Country | Leukemia Treatment Cost | Lymphoma Treatment Cost | Bone Marrow Transplant Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| India | $8,000 – $25,000 | $10,000 – $28,000 | $25,000 – $45,000 |
| USA | $80,000 – $150,000 | $90,000 – $160,000 | $150,000 – $300,000 |
| UK | $70,000 – $140,000 | $80,000 – $150,000 | $140,000 – $250,000 |
| UAE | $50,000 – $100,000 | $55,000 – $110,000 | $100,000 – $200,000 |
| Turkey | $35,000 – $70,000 | $40,000 – $75,000 | $70,000 – $120,000 |
| Thailand | $25,000 – $60,000 | $30,000 – $65,000 | $60,000 – $110,000 |
| Mexico | $20,000 – $50,000 | $25,000 – $55,000 | $50,000 – $90,000 |
👉 As the table shows, India offers the lowest costs globally while ensuring treatment at internationally accredited hospitals.
Why International Patients Choose India
India has become a global leader in oncology care for several reasons:
- Accredited Hospitals: Over 40+ JCI and 700+ NABH-accredited hospitals ensure global standards.
- World-Class Oncologists: Many Indian doctors are trained in the USA/UK and have 20+ years of experience.
- Short Waiting Times: Unlike the UK or Canada, treatment in India starts almost immediately.
- Advanced Technology: Hospitals are equipped with PET-CT scans, robotic surgery, immunotherapy labs, and CAR-T cell therapy.
- English-Speaking Staff: Easy communication for international patients.
- Patient-Centric Care: Dedicated international patient desks for visa, airport pickup, and accommodation support.
Hospital Cost Breakdown (Delhi NCR Examples)
| Hospital (Delhi NCR) | Estimated Leukemia Treatment Cost | Lymphoma Treatment Cost | Bone Marrow Transplant Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apollo Hospitals | $12,000 – $25,000 | $15,000 – $28,000 | $30,000 – $45,000 |
| Fortis Gurgaon | $10,000 – $22,000 | $14,000 – $25,000 | $28,000 – $42,000 |
| Max Hospital Delhi | $11,000 – $24,000 | $15,000 – $26,000 | $30,000 – $44,000 |
| Medanta Gurgaon | $12,000 – $26,000 | $16,000 – $28,000 | $32,000 – $45,000 |
| BLK Hospital Delhi | $10,000 – $23,000 | $14,000 – $25,000 | $28,000 – $40,000 |
Types of Blood Cancer Therapies & Cost in India
| Treatment Type | Cost in India (USD) |
|---|---|
| Chemotherapy (per cycle) | $500 – $1,500 |
| Radiation Therapy (per cycle) | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Immunotherapy (full course) | $6,000 – $12,000 |
| Targeted Therapy | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Stem Cell / BMT Autologous | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| Stem Cell / BMT Allogeneic | $30,000 – $45,000 |
| CAR-T Cell Therapy | $40,000 – $60,000 |
Inclusions vs Exclusions in Packages
Inclusions (generally covered):
- Hospital stay and nursing care
- Doctor consultation and treatment planning
- Chemotherapy/radiation sessions
- Bone marrow/stem cell transplant procedure
- Meals for patient in hospital
- Basic diagnostics (blood tests, scans)
- Airport pickup & drop
Exclusions (charged separately):
- Medical visa fees ($80–$120)
- International flights
- Extra stay in hotels/guesthouses
- Companion meals in hospital
- Post-discharge medicines
- Long-term physiotherapy or rehabilitation
Travel & Stay Costs in India
- Medical Visa: $80–$120 (valid up to 1 year with multiple entries)
- Flights:
- Africa → India: $400–$600
- Gulf → India: $200–$400
- CIS → India: $250–$450
- Southeast Asia → India: $300–$500
- Accommodation:
- Guest houses near hospitals: $20–$40/day
- Budget hotels: $30–$50/day
- Serviced apartments: $50–$80/day
FAQs
1. What is the success rate of blood cancer treatment in India?
Success depends on type and stage. On average, leukemia 60–70%, lymphoma 65–75%, myeloma 50–65% in major Indian hospitals.
2. How long do I need to stay in India?
Average: 3–8 weeks, depending on therapy and follow-ups.
3. Are Indian hospitals safe for foreigners?
Yes. Top hospitals are NABH/JCI accredited, follow strict hygiene protocols, and have dedicated international patient departments.
4. Can I bring a family member?
Yes. Hospitals provide facilities for one attendant. Additional accommodation is available nearby.
5. Do hospitals provide follow-up after returning home?
Yes. Online consultations via WhatsApp/Zoom are standard.
Conclusion
India combines affordable treatment costs with world-class oncology expertise, making it a top choice for patients battling leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. With experienced doctors, advanced therapies, and dedicated support for international patients, India offers hope and healing without financial burden.
👉 If you or your loved one is seeking blood cancer treatment in India, Shifam Health is here to guide you. From visa assistance to hospital selection and cost estimation, we provide end-to-end patient support.
📞 Contact us today for a free estimate or WhatsApp consultation and take the first step towards affordable, quality care in India.
🌐 Visit: shifamhealth.com
