Skin cancer is described as the growth of abnormal cells in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, caused by unrepaired genetic damage. These mutations cause skin cells to proliferate and produce malignant tumors.
One of the major benefits of pursuing skin cancer treatment in India is the low cost. When compared to many Western nations, the whole cost of skin cancer treatment, including diagnostics, surgery, radiation therapy, medication, and post-treatment care, is much lower.
Skin cancer cost in India is Rs.222000 to Rs.296000. The cost for International patients is between USD 4500 to USD 5500.
What are the Causes of Skin Cancer?
The major causes of skin cancer are the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation and UV tanning bed usage.
If skin cancer is detected early, your dermatologist can easily treat it with little or no scarring and a high chance of complete eradication. Frequently, the doctor will detect the growth at a precancerous stage before it has grown to full-fledged skin cancer or has penetrated beyond the skin’s surface.
Some common types of skin cancer are:
- Basal cell carcinoma: These are aberrant, uncontrolled growths of the skin’s basal cells in the skin’s outermost layer (epidermis). These malignancies most commonly occur on sun-exposed skin, particularly the face, ears, neck, scalp, shoulders, and back. The majority of BCCs are produced by a mix of intermittent, severe sun exposure and cumulative, long-term sun exposure. If not diagnosed and treated early, BCCs can be locally devastating. These malignancies can metastasize (spread) and, in extremely rare cases, be lethal.
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is an uncontrolled development of abnormal cells which emerge from squamous cells in the skin’s outermost layer (epidermis). SCCs are more common in sun-exposed areas such as the ears, face, scalp, neck, and hands. These are skin regions that regularly exhibit sun damage signs, such as wrinkles and age spots. Most SCCs are caused by long-term exposure to UV radiation from the sun and tanning. SCCs can develop quickly and spread if not found and treated early.
- Melanoma: Melanoma is a kind of cancer that develops from melanocytes. Melanocytes are skin cells that create melanin, which gives skin its color. Melanomas typically resemble moles and might arise from them. They can occur even in locations that are rarely exposed to sunlight. Melanoma is commonly produced by the same sort of intense, intermittent UV exposure that causes sunburn.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Skin Cancer Treatment in India
- Skin Cancer Type and Stage: The type and stage of skin cancer play an important role in deciding the treatment technique and cost. Various kinds of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, need differing degrees of treatment rigor, such as surgery, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or chemotherapy. The more advanced the cancer stage, the more comprehensive and costly the treatment.
- Treatment Method: The type of skin cancer treatment selected, such as surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, might affect the cost. Each modality has its own set of criteria and costs. Surgical interventions, for example, may incur expenditures for anesthesia, operating room charges, surgeon fees, and post-operative care, whereas radiation treatment may incur costs for the use of radiation.
- Hospital and Surgeon Expertise: The cost can be influenced by the hospital chosen as well as the skill of the treating surgeon. Famous hospitals and clinics with excellent reputations may demand more rates for their services. Oncologists and dermatologists with extensive expertise and skill may charge higher consultation or surgery costs.
- Diagnostic test: Diagnostic testing, including biopsies, imaging examinations (such as CT scans or MRI), and laboratory investigations, are critical for proper skin cancer diagnosis and staging. The cost of these tests varies according to the hospital or laboratory used, the complexity of the tests necessary, and the number of tests performed.
- Geographical Location: The cost of skin cancer treatment can vary depending on where you live in India. Treatment expenses may be greater in metropolitan areas and popular medical tourism destinations than in smaller towns or cities.
The top hospitals in India for skin cancer treatment are:
Some famous hospitals in India provide superior skin cancer therapy. While many hospitals are acknowledged for their skill in this sector, the following institutions are commonly regarded as some of the top skin cancer treatment facilities in India:
- Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai: Tata Memorial Hospital is India’s leading cancer treatment and research facility. It is well-known for its comprehensive cancer care and offers a skin cancer treatment program. The hospital takes a multidisciplinary approach, bringing professionals from many areas together to deliver tailored and effective care.
- Apollo Hospitals, Chennai: Apollo Hospitals is one of Asia’s major healthcare providers, with a network of hospitals spread across the country. The hospital group offers a well-known dermatology department that specializes in the treatment of skin cancer. They provide modern therapies as well as individualized attention to patients.
- Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore: CMC is a prestigious medical institution with a reputation for offering high-quality healthcare services. The hospital features a well-established dermatology department that provides comprehensive skin cancer therapy. The team of skilled dermatologists and oncologists uses cutting-edge procedures to give the best possible treatment to patients.
- Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI), Gurgaon: FMRI is a premier multi-specialty hospital noted for its cutting-edge technology and competence in a wide range of medical specialties. The hospital contains a dermatology section that provides comprehensive skin cancer therapy. The seasoned team of professionals delivers tailored care utilizing cutting-edge technologies and therapy approaches.
- Max Cancer Institute, Max Hospital, New Delhi: Max Institute of Cancer Care is a well-known cancer treatment facility. The hospital provides skin cancer treatment using a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together a team of expert oncologists, dermatologists, and other specialists. They provide innovative treatment alternatives as well as individualized attention to patients.
Conclusion
Skin cancer therapy in India provides an appealing mix of cost and healthcare competence. Patients may receive top-quality medical treatment at considerably lesser expenses as compared to many other nations. Skin cancer cost in India is very fair due to improved healthcare infrastructure and the availability of trained specialists.
