Explore cutting-edge CAR T-cell therapy for cancer in India. Find the best hospital and treatment at low costs.
Learn about the approved Indian technology and successful trials. Let us help you beat cancer today!
Understanding Terms
- T- Cells – Lymphocytes
- Lymphocytes – A type of White Blood cell in the body that fights infection
- Heametological Malignancies – Blood Cancer
- CAR or Chimeric Antigen Receptor – A type of gene processed in a lab and added to human T-cells in order to fight cancer
- Antigen – Protein in the body that acts like a red flag and alerts the body of a foreign presence to fight
- Remission – Reduced symptoms of cancer after treatment
Regulatory Bodies Worldwide That Approve CAR T-Cell Therapy
Below are the highest authorities that approve medication and consumables in a country.
All these bodies are counterparts to each other, ensuring public health safety.
| Country | Regulatory Body |
| United States | FDA – Food and Drug Administration |
| India | CDSCO – Central Drugs Standard Control Organization |
| United Kingdom | NICE – The National Institute of Health and Care Excellence |
| China | NMPA – National Medical Products Administration |
| Germany (Part of the EU) | EMA – European Medicines Agency |
What Is the Cost of CAR T-Cell Therapy for Cancer in India
The cost of CAR T-cell therapy for cancer in India ranges between US$50,000 – 85,000.
Here is a cost comparison between India and other countries where CAR T-cell therapy for cancer is approved.
| Country | Cost in USD |
| India | $50,000 – $85,000 |
| US | $450,000[1]National Cancer Institute CAR T Cells: Engineering Patients’ Immune Cells to Treat Their Cancers “’In the case of the most recently approved CAR T-cell therapy, is more than $450,000” View in Article |
| China | $119,000 – $140,000[2]Journal of Medical Economics Cost effectiveness analysis of CAR-T cell therapy for patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma in China “Incremental costs of US$140,693 and $119,806” View in Article |
| UK | $350,000[3]Cancer Research UK Cutting edge’ CAR T cell immunotherapy approved in England. But is the NHS ready “The treatments are expensive, at around £280,000 per patient” View in Article |
| Germany | $320,000[4]Annals of Oncology 1603P Can we reduce the acquisition cost of CAR T cell therapies? “The pricing of commercially available products at approximately 300,000 euros per patient treated” View in Article |
| UAE | $200,000 |
| Israel | $120,000 |
*Cost is subject to change as per the case. Contact us for the latest prices.
India can be seen as the most affordable country, where approved CAR T-Cell therapy is available, with up to 90% savings for overseas patients.
Cost Package for International Patients in India
The cost package in India for international patients is around US$50,000 – 85,000. Know the timelines and details of cost package below.
| Part of treatment | Duration of Stay | Location of Stay | Cost Included or Excluded |
| Pre-treatment Investigations | 3-4 days | Hotel | Excluded |
| Main Treatment | 28 days | Hospital | Included |
| Post-treatment Follow up | 3- 4 months | Hotel | Excluded |
*Timeline could vary as per the treatment plan
What else is included?
- Stay and meals for the patient during the treatment time
- Stay and meals for the companion during the treatment time
- Complete therapy (including all lab work, blood work and genetic alterations)
- Consultation of the main specialist and full team
- All medications
What is not included?
- Investigation and follow-up phases of the treatment
- Additional surgery or procedure
- Consultation of a doctor of unrelated speciality
- Medication apart from the treatment plan
- Extra specialised equipment & PPP are required
The follow-up happens 2 times a week for around 3-4 months.
During the follow-up stage, overseas patients can choose budget stays, like apartments, with the help of our advisors.
Typically, an apartment costs US$700 – 1000 per month.
Patients who would like to stay in luxury hotels would need to spend around US$4500 – 6000.
Why Is CAR T-Cell Therapy for Cancer Expensive?
CAR T-cell therapy is relatively new, and studies are still underway on harnessing a patient’s immune system.
Here are some of the reasons why the treatment is expensive as compared to the others.
- Complex processes like cell extraction, genetic modification, and multiplication in a lab.
- Customised treatment for each patient.
- Inpatient environment, adding to the hospitalisation charges. Upto $85,000[5]National Library of Medicine
Price and Prejudice? The Value of Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-Cell Therapy
“Inpatient environment since it requires the infusion of modified T cells and consequent monitoring of the disease status, costing an additional $79,466 to $85,267”
View in Article in the US, as per research. - Quality control and safety measures.
- Limited scalability of manufacturing processes.
Travel for CAR T-Cell Therapy in India To Treat Cancer
International patients have the hope to get quality treatment with almost 90% cost savings in India.
International Patient Journey
Our medical advisors ensure a seamless patient journey from start to finish.
Find below a snapshot of the international patient journey.
CAR T-cell treatment is customised as per the patient.
CAR genes created in a lab are unique to a patient’s immune system.
Complex tests are conducted on each patient by specialists to check whether the treatment would work or not.
Some patients’ bodies may not accept a particular CAR gene, while some may have T-cells in their bodies that cannot be engineered at early stages.
Eligibility for the therapy varies from person to person.
Once the doctor in India decides that the patient is eligible, they are asked to come to India for another round of pre-investigations.
Ready to confront cancer? Contact us to check if you qualify for the therapy.
Overview: Global Perspective on CAR T-Cell Therapy
CAR T-cell therapy is a game changer in the field of oncology worldwide. The treatment uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. Read more in the Procedure section.
FDA approved the first CAR T-cell therapy for cancer in 2017 in the US.[6]National Cancer Institute
CAR T Cells: Engineering Patients’ Immune Cells to Treat Their Cancers
“Since 2017, six CAR T-cell therapies have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)”
View in Article
Post this, other countries in Europe and China conducted trials and received approvals from their designated authorities.
In 2022, the countries mentioned below conducted ongoing clinical trials for CAR T-cell therapy.[7]Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute
Systematic Review of Available CAR-T Cell Trials around the World
“’We found that China is the country with the majority of CAR-T cell clinical trials registered on ClinicalTrials.gov accessed on 10 March 2022, with 460 studies.”
View in Article
| Country | Number of Trials |
| China | 460 |
| United States | 286 |
| UK | 14 |
| Germany | 9 |
| India | 2 |
For years, India has been studying ways to produce CAR T-cell therapy at an affordable price.
Scientists from top Indian academic and medical institutes backed by the premier National Institutes of Health in the US finally developed indigenous CAR T-cell therapy in India.
In 2023, CDSCO approved India’s first CAR T-cell therapy after 2 successful clinical trials.[8]National Cancer Institute
India’s First Homegrown CAR T-Cell Therapy Has Roots in NCI Collaboration
“The approval was based on the results of two small clinical trials conducted in IndiaExit Disclaimer in 64 people with advanced lymphoma or leukemia”
View in Article
Why CAR T-Cell Therapy for Cancer in India?
The biggest challenge this new cancer treatment faces is the high cost.
India offers hope to foreigners who cannot afford the high prices yet require effective treatment.
After the 2020 pandemic, India emerged as the world leader in the manufacturing of medicines and vaccines.[9]Science Direct
CAR-T cell therapy in India requires a paradigm shift in training, education and health care processes
“The Indian pharmaceutical companies have been world leaders in the manufacturing of generic medicines and vaccines”
View in Article
India made another breakthrough in healthcare by designing its very own CAR T-cell therapy.
Through local manufacturing, India started producing and using CAR T-cell therapy commercially, with up to 90% cost savings compared to the US.
India does not have any waiting time for CAR T-cell therapy. Foreigners can get affordable treatment access immediately.
In the US, as per reports, the wait time for CAR T-cell therapy can be as long as 6 months.[10]American Society of Haematology
The Dark Side of CAR-T
“One survey of 15 institutions found that the average wait time was six months, and only 25% of patients ended up getting to CAR-T”
View in Article
Comparison Between CAR T-Cell Therapy and Bone Marrow Transplant To Treat Blood Cancers
CAR T-cell therapy and bone marrow transplants are used to treat blood cancers.
India offers top oncology programs for overseas patients for both treatments. Let’s do a quick comparison of the two options.
| Parameters | CAR T-Cell Therapy | Bone Marrow Transplant |
| Cost | $50,000 – $85,000 | $30,000 – $40,000 |
| Duration of trip | 3- 4 months | 3- 4 months |
| Eligibility | Patients who have relapsed after chemotherapy or other treatments | Patients who have had partial remission from high doses of chemotherapy |
| Side-effects | Cytokine release syndrome.
Weakened Immune system Nausea & fatigue Fever & joint pain Risk of infections |
Graft vs. host disease.
Nausea & fatigue Difficulty in blood clotting Infertility Risk of Infections Lung damage Bone damage Thyroid damage |
| Success rate | 80% | 81% |
| Outcomes | 30-100 days complete recovery | 100 days complete recovery[11]Blood & Marrow Transplant Information Network Treatment Options for Lymphoma Patients: When to Consider Transplant or CAR-T “Post-transplant supportive care, patients are considered immune compromised or immune deficient for up to 100 days” View in Article |
| Difference | There is no requirement for external donors. The patient’s T-cells are used to fight cancer.
The patient need not respond well to chemotherapy for CAR T-cell therapy. |
Getting a perfect donor is a huge challenge in Autologous BMT
Patients should respond positively to chemotherapy for autologous BMT. |
Final Verdict
Studies have revealed that CAR T-cell therapy can prove to be better than previous forms of cancer treatment, which include chemotherapy or even bone marrow transplant.
Despite higher costs, CAR T-cell therapy is proving to be highly effective in its early stages. 50% of people who get into partial recovery translate into complete remission by day 100.[12]Blood & Marrow Transplant Information Network
Treatment Options for Lymphoma Patients: When to Consider Transplant or CAR-T
“50% of people who get a partial remission from CAR-T therapy convert to a complete remission by day 100”
View in Article
Certain times, CAR T-cell therapy has been administered after an ineffective bone marrow transplant.
Ultimately, both treatment options can help treat blood cancers, depending on patient requirements.
To learn more about bone marrow transplants in detail, read our blog on Bone Marrow Transplant for Leukaemia in India.
What Is the Success Rate of CAR T-Cell Therapy in India?
The success rate for CAR T-cell therapy in India is 80%, as per studies.[13]Spandidos Publication
CAR T cell therapy: A new era for cancer treatment (Review)
“The use of this therapy in the last few years has been successful, with a reduction in remission rates of up to 80% for haematologic cancer”
View in Article
Developments in oncology treatment are still ongoing. New research methodologies are trying to find ways to better this treatment.
Procedure: CAR T-Cell Therapy
CAR T-cell therapy is a part of Immunotherapy, which is radically changing the way cancer is treated with the use of gene and cell therapy.
The therapy involves using the power of the patient’s T-cells to fight cancer by modifying them in a lab.
CAR T-cell therapy usually comes into play if all other options do not work for a patient.
How Does CAR T-Cell Therapy Work?
CAR T-cell therapy modifies T-cells to recognise and attack cancer cells with utmost precision by adding a gene called CAR.
This acts as a key to unlocking cancer cell antigens, enabling the immune system to destroy the deadly cancer.
How Does CAR T-Cell Therapy Treat Cancer?
CAR T-cell therapy takes place in 3 main steps:
Extraction
Involves extracting the T-cells from the patient’s body through a process called Leukaleukapheresis.[14]American Cancer Society
CAR T-cell Therapy and Its Side Effects
“First, white blood cells (which include T cells) are removed from the patient’s blood using a procedure called leukapheresis.”
View in Article
Modification and Multiplication
T-cells are taken to a lab and changed by adding the CAR gene to it. Then, the CAR T-cell is multiplied artificially.
Insertion
Insertion of the CAR T-cells back into the patient’s body. The multiple altered cells can fight the target cancerous cells with high accuracy.
What Type of Cancers Can CAR T-Cell Therapy Treat?
CAR T-cell therapy can treat different types of blood cancers, such as:[15]European Journal of Haematology
CAR-T cell therapy in haematological malignancies: Where are we now and where are we heading for?
“’In this section, we delve into the present state of CAR-T research for various haematological cancers.”
View in Article
- Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): ALL affects Lymphocytes, a type of WBC
- Acute myeloid leukemia (AML): One of the most aggressive types of blood cancers, AML, affects Myeloid cells, another type of WBC. These abnormal myeloid cells multiply rapidly and prevent good cells from functioning.
- Chronic lymphoblastic leukemia (CLL): Similar to AML, CLL affects the myeloid cells. However, the abnormal myeloid cell production in AML is rapid, whereas in CLL, it is slower and more controlled.
- Multiple myeloma: Plasma Cells in the body are affected by this cancer. Unhealthy plasma cells multiply and prevent healthy cells from functioning.
- Non-Hodgkin’s B-cell lymphoma: Affects the lymphatic system. Lymphocytes grow abnormally and cause tumours in the body.
Watch Experts in India Speak on the Latest CAR T-Cell Therapy
Discover the groundbreaking world of Car T-cell therapy in India and watch as experts talk about this advanced treatment.
Know how to access effective treatment at low costs and understand the procedure and timelines for international patients.
CAR T-Cell Therapy for Cancer in India: A New Hope to Fight Battle Against Cancer
What Are the Benefits of CAR T-Cell Therapy?
- Precision: Modified T-cells attack the cancer cells with high precision and do not damage other healthy body parts.
- Faster recovery time: As the healthy cells are not damaged, the recovery time is faster than conventional cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation.
- Longer remission period: After treatment, the chances of cancer coming back are lower in patients as they have strengthened T-cells.
What Are the Side Effects of CAR T-Cell Therapy?
CRA is one of the side effects of CAR T-cell therapy.
When cytokine is released, it triggers the immune system to attack anything foreign in the body. CRA effects can include:
- High fever & trouble breathing
- Severe nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhoea
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Body pain
Which Is the Best Hospital for CAR T-Cell Therapy in India?
Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali
4.6⭐(11,791 Google Reviews)
Address
W-3, Ashok Marg, near Radisson Blu Hotel, Sector-1, Vaishali, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201012
- State-of-the-art facilities and comprehensive support services for patients undergoing CAR-T cell therapy.
- Top haematology experts who provide advanced oncology care to patients.
- NABH-accredited multidisciplinary hospital with over 260 leading specialists.
Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali
Who Is the Best Specialist for CAR T-Cell Therapy in India?
Dr. Esha Kaul
- Experience: 12+ years
- Expertise: Stem Cell Transplant
- Education: MBBS, All India Institute of Medical Sciences
- Member of the American Society of Transplant and Cellular Therapy
- Residency in Internal Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, USA
- Director of Hematology, Haemato-Oncology & BMT Max Hospital, Vaishali
Dr. Esha Kaul
Is CAR T-Cell Therapy for Cancer in India Safe?
Yes, CAR T-cell therapy for cancer in India is safe.
As per studies last year, which led to approvals, India showcased no requirement for ICU admissions or development of neuro-toxicity in patients, like the counterpart studies in the West.[16]The Times of India
Why CAR-T cell therapy is new frontier in cancer care
“Our patients didn’t need ICU admissions or develop neuro-toxicity reported in Western studies”
View in Article
FAQs
Is CAR T-Cell Therapy for Cancer Approved in India?
Yes, CAR T-cell therapy for cancer is approved in India by CDSCO, which is the Indian counterpart to the FDA in the US or the European Medicines Agency, EU.
Which Country Is the Best for CAR T-Cell Therapy?
All countries that have been approved for CAR T-cell therapy by regulatory bodies are good to get the treatment.
However, India seems to be the most affordable option, with high-quality CAR T-cell programs that benefit overseas patients.
Conclusion
Now that you know all about CAR T-cell therapy for cancer in India, what are you waiting for?
Get low-cost treatment at the best hospital today. With approved and certified technology at your fingertips, find quality oncology care with us.
Contact us for more information or inquire about the procedure.
References
- National Cancer Institute: CAR T Cells: Engineering Patients’ Immune Cells to Treat Their Cancers
- Journal of Medical Economics: Cost-effectiveness analysis of CAR-T cell therapy for patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma in China
- Cancer Research UK: Cutting edge’ CAR T cell immunotherapy approved in England. But is the NHS ready?
- Annals of Oncology: 1603P Can we reduce the acquisition cost of CAR T cell therapies?
- National Library of Medicine: Price and Prejudice? The Value of Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-Cell Therapy
- National Cancer Institute: CAR T Cells: Engineering Patients’ Immune Cells to Treat Their Cancers
- Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute: Systematic Review of Available CAR-T Cell Trials around the World
- National Cancer Institute: India’s First Homegrown CAR T-Cell Therapy Has Roots in NCI Collaboration
- Science Direct: CAR-T cell therapy in India requires a paradigm shift in training, education and healthcare processes
- American Society of Haematology: The Dark Side of CAR-T
- Blood & Marrow Transplant Information Network: Treatment Options for Lymphoma Patients: When to Consider Transplant or CAR-T
- Spandidos Publication: CAR T cell therapy- A new era for cancer treatment (Review)
- American Cancer Society CAR T-cell Therapy and Its Side Effects
- European Journal of Haematology CAR-T cell therapy in haematological malignancies: Where are we now and where are we heading for?
- The Times of India Why CAR-T cell therapy is new frontier in cancer care
