Lung cancer is a serious and challenging illness that requires a multifaceted approach for treatment. The choice of treatment depends on various factors including the type and stage of cancer, overall health of the patient, and specific genetic markers of the tumor. Here’s an overview of the common lung cancer treatment options:
1. Surgery
Surgery is often the first line of treatment for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that hasn’t spread beyond the lungs. The primary goal is to remove the tumor and any affected lymph nodes. The types of surgery include:
- Lobectomy: Removal of one lobe of the lung.
- Pneumonectomy: Removal of an entire lung.
- Segmentectomy or Wedge Resection: Removal of part of a lobe.
2. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It’s often used in conjunction with surgery or for patients who are not candidates for surgery. Types of radiation therapy include:
- External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): Directs radiation from outside the body.
- Brachytherapy: Places radioactive material inside the body near cancer cells.
3. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It’s commonly used for both NSCLC and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Chemotherapy can be administered before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumors or after surgery (adjuvant) to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.
4. Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy focuses on specific genes, proteins, or the tissue environment that contributes to cancer growth and survival. This treatment is particularly effective for patients with specific genetic mutations like EGFR, ALK, or ROS1.
5. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer. Drugs like pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and nivolumab (Opdivo) have shown effectiveness in treating certain types of lung cancer by targeting immune checkpoints.
6. Clinical Trials
Participating in clinical trials can provide access to new and experimental treatments. Clinical trials are crucial for advancing the understanding and treatment of lung cancer.
Lung Cancer Treatment Cost in India
Lung cancer treatment cost in India can vary widely depending on the type of treatment, hospital, city, and individual patient needs. Surgery costs can range from INR 2,00,000 to 5,00,000, while chemotherapy cycles can cost between INR 50,000 to 1,50,000 each. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy are usually more expensive, with costs potentially exceeding INR 2,00,000 per cycle. Radiation therapy costs are typically between INR 1,00,000 to 2,50,000.
Conclusion
Choosing the right treatment for lung cancer involves careful consideration of multiple factors, including the cancer’s characteristics and the patient’s overall health. India’s healthcare system offers a range of treatment options at various price points, making it accessible for many patients. It’s important for patients and their families to discuss with healthcare professionals to understand the best treatment plan and associated costs.
