Prostate Cancer Treatment Cost in India

Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in men, especially those over the age of 50. While the diagnosis can be overwhelming, timely treatment can lead to excellent outcomes, particularly when the cancer is caught early. The encouraging news for patients is that high-quality prostate cancer treatment is not only accessible but also affordable in India.

The cost of prostate cancer treatment in India typically ranges from ₹3,50,000 ($4,200) to ₹9,00,000 ($10,800) or more, depending on the type and stage of the cancer, the chosen treatment, and the hospital facility. It is significantly lower than what patients would pay in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, or the UAE without compromising on care quality or technology.

India offers advanced options such as robotic-assisted prostatectomy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), hormone therapy, and cutting-edge immunotherapy, Lutetium-177 PSMA therapy, all under the supervision of internationally trained oncologists and urologists. With its combination of medical expertise, advanced infrastructure, and affordable pricing, India has become a top destination for prostate cancer treatment for patients from Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and beyond.

What Is Prostate Cancer and Its Types?

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate (a small, walnut-shaped gland in the male reproductive system that produces seminal fluid). The prostate gland sits just below the bladder and neighbours the urethra, the tube through which urine and semen pass. Prostate cancer usually grows slowly and may not cause serious harm in its early stages. However, there are a few forms of prostate cancer that can be aggressive and spread quickly if left untreated.

Prostate cancer often begins when abnormal cells in the prostate start multiplying uncontrollably. With time, these cells can form a tumor and potentially spread to nearby tissues or even distant parts of the body, such as the bones and lymph nodes.

What are the Common Types of Prostate Cancer?

While not all prostate cancers behave the same way, understanding the different types helps determine the best treatment path. Some of the most common types are:

• Adenocarcinoma of the Prostate: This is by far the most common type, accounting for more than 90% of all prostate cancer cases. It begins in the glandular cells that produce prostate fluid. Adenocarcinomas tend to grow slowly; however, some variants may exhibit more aggressive behavior.
• Small Cell Carcinoma: A rare and aggressive form of prostate cancer, small cell carcinoma doesn't produce prostate-specific antigen (PSA), making it harder to detect in the early stages. It typically spreads more rapidly than adenocarcinoma and requires intensive treatment.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This type is very uncommon and starts in the flat cells of the prostate. It tends to grow and spread faster than typical prostate adenocarcinomas and is often less responsive to standard hormone therapy.
• Transitional Cell Carcinoma (Urothelial Cancer): Though it usually originates in the bladder, transitional cell carcinoma can also begin in the prostate. It behaves more like bladder cancer and may require a different treatment approach than standard prostate cancer.
• Neuroendocrine Tumors: These are extremely rare and aggressive cancers that originate in neuroendocrine cells within the prostate. Treatment often involves chemotherapy and other systemic therapies due to their resistance to hormonal treatment.

What are the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer often develops quietly, especially in its early stages. Many men may not notice any symptoms until the cancer has grown large enough to affect the surrounding tissues or organs. That's why regular health checks are so necessary, particularly for men over 50.

However, when symptoms do appear, they usually relate to changes in urination or sexual function. Paying attention to early warning signs leads to quicker prostate cancer diagnosis and better treatment outcomes.

The most common symptoms men might experience are:

• Changes in Urination: One of the first signs is a noticeable change in urinary habits. It may include a weaker stream of urine, difficulty starting or stopping urination, or the feeling that the bladder isn't completely empty even after urination. Some men may need to urinate more frequently, especially at night, which disrupts sleep and causes fatigue.
• Burning or Pain While Urinating: Some individuals report a stinging or burning feeling when they urinate. While this can also be a sign of an infection, it's essential to rule out other causes like prostate problems, especially if the symptom doesn't go away.
• Blood in Urine or Semen: The presence of blood, even in small amounts, can be alarming. It's not always linked to cancer, but it should never be ignored. Blood in the urine or semen could suggest an issue in the prostate or nearby organs.
• Pain in the Lower Back or Pelvis: When prostate cancer spreads, it often travels to the bones and can cause persistent pain in the lower back, thighs, or pelvic area. If the discomfort is dull, deep, and doesn't improve with rest, it's worth getting it checked.
• Erectile Difficulties: Some men with prostate cancer may experience trouble achieving or maintaining an erection. It could be due to the cancer itself or a side effect of a growing prostate pressing on surrounding tissues.
• Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control: In more advanced stages, the tumor can press against the spinal cord or nerves, resulting in weakness in the legs or difficulty controlling urination and defecation. It can be a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

Keep in mind that these symptoms can also occur due to non-cancerous conditions like an enlarged prostate or infections. But if they persist or worsen over time, it's crucial to consult a doctor. 

What are the Prostate Cancer Treatment Options?

Treatment for prostate cancer is not one-size-fits-all. The right plan depends on factors like the stage of cancer, how fast it's growing, your age, overall health, and personal preferences. Some men may need aggressive treatment right away, while others can take a more gradual approach with regular monitoring.

The main treatment options available for prostate cancer are:

Surgery

Surgery is often recommended when the cancer is still confined to the prostate. The most common type is a radical prostatectomy, where the entire prostate gland is removed. It can be achieved through traditional open surgery or more advanced robotic-assisted techniques, which enable greater precision and a quicker recovery.

Surgery aims to eradicate the cancer, but it may cause side effects like urinary incontinence or erectile dysfunction. However, with skilled surgeons and better techniques, many men regain normal function over time.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation uses high-energy beams or rays to target and kill cancer cells. It's often used as a primary treatment or after surgery if there's a risk the cancer might return. There are different types of radiation:

• External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): Beams are directed at the prostate from outside the body.
• Brachytherapy: Small radioactive seeds are placed inside the prostate gland to remit radiation directly to the tumor.

Modern techniques, such as IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy) and SBRT (Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy), help protect surrounding healthy tissue while effectively treating the cancer.

Hormone Therapy

Also known as androgen deprivation therapy, this treatment lowers levels of male hormones like testosterone, which fuel prostate cancer growth. Hormone therapy can shrink the tumor or slow its progress, especially in advanced or high-risk cases.

Hormone therapy treatment doesn't cure cancer on its own, but it's often used along with radiation or chemotherapy to improve results.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is usually reserved for aggressive or metastatic prostate cancers that don't respond well to hormone therapy. It uses potent drugs to attack rapidly dividing cancer cells throughout the body. It's given in cycles and may be used to shrink tumors, ease symptoms, or extend survival.

Commonly used drugs include docetaxel and cabazitaxel, which are effective even in advanced stages.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy focuses on specific genetic mutations or proteins that enable cancer cells to grow. One example is PARP inhibitors, which may be prescribed to men with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations. These drugs can slow disease progression and improve outcomes for selected patients.

Immunotherapy

This newer approach uses the body's own immune system to fight cancer. While not suitable for everyone, certain types of immunotherapy (such as checkpoint inhibitors) are being studied and used in advanced cases, especially when other treatments have failed.

Lutetium-177 (Lu-177) PSMA Therapy

Lu-177 PSMA therapy is an advanced treatment used for metastatic prostate cancer that does not respond to traditional therapies. It combines a radioactive isotope (Lu-177) with a molecule that targets the prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), which is a protein found on the surface of prostate cancer cells. Once attached, it delivers radiation directly to the tumor while sparing healthy tissue. This therapy is showing promise in improving both survival and quality of life in patients with late-stage disease.

Active Surveillance

In cases where the prostate cancer is slow-growing and not causing symptoms, doctors may recommend a "watch and wait" approach. Regular checkups, PSA tests, and biopsies are done to monitor the cancer. If it starts to grow or change, treatment can begin.

This option helps avoid unnecessary side effects in men whose cancer may never become life-threatening.

What is the Cost of Prostate Cancer Treatment in India?

One of the significant reasons international patients choose India for prostate cancer treatment is the cost advantage. Patients receive world-class care at a fraction of what they would pay in countries like the United States, the UK, or Australia, without compromising on quality, technology, or medical expertise.

The cost of prostate cancer treatment in India typically ranges from ₹3,50,000 (approximately $4,200) to ₹9,00,000 ($10,800) or more, depending on the treatment type, hospital, city, and stage of the disease. 

Below is the breakdown of the average cost range for each treatment modality:

• Surgery (Radical or Robotic Prostatectomy): Patients who undergo robot-assisted radical prostatectomy can expect the total cost to range from ₹3,50,000 to ₹5,50,000 ($4,200 – $6,600), including hospitalization, surgery, anesthesia, and recovery care.
• Radiation Therapy (IMRT or SBRT): If the patient requires external beam radiation therapy (IMRT or SBRT), the cost typically falls between ₹2,00,000 and ₹4,00,000 ($2,400 – $4,800) for the full course of treatment.
• Hormone Therapy (Androgen Deprivation Therapy): Hormone therapy using androgen deprivation injections such as leuprolide or goserelin can cost ₹30,000 to ₹80,000 ($350 – $950) per cycle, depending on the brand and frequency of administration.
• Chemotherapy (for Advanced or Resistant Cases): In cases where chemotherapy is prescribed (usually for advanced or resistant cancer), the total cost per cycle is usually ₹40,000 to ₹1,00,000 ($480 – $1,200). The number of cycles needed will depend on the patient's condition and response.
• Targeted Therapy: For patients eligible for targeted therapy (e.g., PARP inhibitors), the monthly cost can range from ₹1,20,000 to ₹2,50,000 ($1,400 – $3,000), depending on the drug used and the duration of therapy.
• Lutetium-177 (Lu-177) PSMA Therapy: For advanced cases that qualify for Lutetium-177 PSMA therapy, the cost per dose is expected to be ₹6,00,000 to ₹8,00,000 ($7,000 – $9,000). Most treatment plans involve two to four doses, depending on disease burden and response.
• Supportive Care and Additional Expenses: Supportive treatments, imaging scans, and diagnostic tests may add ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000 ($600 – $1,200) to the overall treatment cost, especially in complex or advanced cases.

Cost Comparison: India vs Other Countries for Prostate Cancer Treatment

One of the many reasons patients travel abroad for prostate cancer care is the high cost of treatment in their home countries. India stands out for delivering globally comparable quality at a fraction of the price. Here's a side-by-side look at how much common prostate cancer treatments cost across different countries:

Surgery (Radical or Robotic Prostatectomy)

• India: ₹3,50,000 – ₹5,50,000 ($4,200 – $6,600)
• USA: $25,000 – $40,000
• UK: £15,000 – £25,000
• Turkey: $7,000 – $10,000
• Thailand: $6,000 – $9,000

Radiation Therapy (IMRT or SBRT)

• India: ₹2,00,000 – ₹4,00,000 ($2,400 – $4,800)
• USA: $20,000 – $35,000
• UK: £10,000 – £18,000
• Turkey: $6,000 – $8,000
• Thailand: $5,000 – $7,500

Hormone Therapy (Per Cycle)

• India: ₹30,000 – ₹80,000 ($350 – $950)
• USA: $1,000 – $2,500
• UK: £800 – £1,500
• Turkey: $400 – $800
• Thailand: $350 – $750

Chemotherapy (Per Cycle)

• India: ₹40,000 – ₹1,00,000 ($480 – $1,200)
• USA: $3,000 – $6,000
• UK: £2,000 – £4,000
• Turkey: $1,200 – $2,500
• Thailand: $1,000 – $2,200

Targeted Therapy (Monthly)

• India: ₹1,20,000 – ₹2,50,000 ($1,400 – $3,000)
• USA: $8,000 – $12,000
• UK: £5,000 – £8,000
• Turkey: $3,000 – $5,000
• Thailand: $2,800 – $4,500

Lutetium-177 (Lu-177) PSMA Therapy (Per Dose)

• India: ₹6,00,000 – ₹8,00,000 ($7,000 – $9,000
• USA: $45,000 – $75,000
• UK: £30,000 – £50,000
• Turkey: $15,000 – $22,000
• Thailand: $14,000 – $18,000

Factors Affecting the Cost of Prostate Cancer Treatment in India

The total cost of treating prostate cancer can vary significantly from one patient to another. This variation is due to a mix of clinical, logistical, and personal factors that influence how the treatment is planned and delivered. Here's a closer look at what impacts the final cost:

• Type and Stage of Cancer: Early-stage prostate cancer often requires less intensive treatment, such as surgery or active surveillance. In contrast, advanced or metastatic cancer might need a combination of hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, and even Lu-177 PSMA therapy, all of which increase the cost.
• Treatment Modality Chosen: Different treatments come with different price tags. For example, robotic surgery is more expensive than traditional surgery. Similarly, targeted therapies and nuclear medicine treatments like Lu-177 are costlier than hormone therapy or radiation. The choice depends on the disease progression and the patient's response to treatment.
• Number of Treatment Cycles or Sessions: Radiation is typically given over several weeks. Chemotherapy and hormone therapy require repeated cycles. Each cycle or session contributes to the total expense, especially if the treatment plan spans multiple months.
• Hospital and City Selection: Hospitals in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore may charge more due to higher infrastructure and living costs. On the other hand, equally competent care in tier-2 towns might be more affordable. Additionally, multi-specialty centers with advanced facilities have slightly higher base costs.
• Experience of the Treating Oncologist: Highly experienced oncologists or surgeons with international exposure and training often come at a premium. However, their expertise may lead to fewer complications, shorter hospital stays, and better long-term outcomes.
• Room Category and Hospital Stay: Choosing a private or deluxe hospital room increases your overall cost. Length of stay also matters. Complex surgeries or post-treatment complications might require extended hospitalization and follow-up care.
• Additional Diagnostic and Supportive Services: Scans, lab tests, PSA monitoring, physiotherapy, and nutritional counseling are essential parts of the treatment journey. These supportive services add value to recovery but also contribute to the final bill.
• Need for Advanced Therapies: If your cancer is resistant to standard treatments, advanced options like Lu-177 PSMA, immunotherapy, or genetic testing may be necessary. These treatments are highly specialized and significantly raise the cost.

Why Choose India for Prostate Cancer Treatment?

India has become a trusted destination for prostate cancer treatment among international patients, not just for its affordability but for the comprehensive care, personalized attention, and advanced technologies available. Here's what makes the country a preferred option for thousands of patients each year:

• Globally Trained Cancer Specialists: India is home to oncologists and urologic surgeons who have trained or worked in top institutions across the US, UK, and Europe. Their global experience ensures that patients receive world-class care based on international guidelines and protocols.
• Advanced Surgical and Radiotherapy Technology: Many hospitals in India offer cutting-edge solutions, including robot-assisted prostatectomy, image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), and Lutetium-177 PSMA therapy, ensuring access to highly precise and effective treatment options.
• Quick Access and Minimal Waiting Time: Unlike in some countries where patients face long waiting periods, Indian hospitals are equipped to begin diagnosis and treatment immediately. It is particularly beneficial for cancer patients, where timing can significantly affect outcomes.
• Affordable Without Compromising Quality: Despite using modern equipment and offering premium care, treatment costs in India remain much lower than in the West. Patients can save up to 60–80% while still receiving treatment from top-tier professionals in well-accredited hospitals.
• Language and Communication Support: English is widely spoken across medical facilities, and many hospitals provide dedicated translators for international patients. It eliminates language barriers and helps families stay informed throughout the treatment journey.
• Integrated International Patient Services: Hospitals in India offer seamless care coordination through specialized international desks. From visa assistance and airport pickups to customized meals and follow-ups via teleconsultation, the entire experience is streamlined for overseas patients.
• Access to New-Age Treatments: India is among the few countries in Asia offering advanced therapies, such as Lu-177 PSMA, PARP inhibitors, and genomic-based personalized care for prostate cancer, providing patients with access to promising, next-generation treatments.

Prostate Cancer Treatment Protocol in India

Hospitals across India follow a structured, evidence-based approach to treating prostate cancer. The goal is to design a personalized treatment plan that matches the patient's specific cancer type, stage, and health profile, while minimizing side effects and maximizing the desired results. From the initial consultation to post-treatment care, every step is carefully coordinated and managed.

Initial Evaluation and Diagnosis

The process begins with a detailed evaluation of your medical history, symptoms, and test results. A PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test, digital rectal exam (DRE), MRI, and prostate biopsy are usually performed to confirm the diagnosis of prostate cancer and determine its aggressiveness.

Once the Gleason score and cancer stage are identified, a multidisciplinary team of specialists reviews the findings to map out the best course of action.

Risk Assessment and Staging Workup

Before starting treatment, doctors assess whether the cancer is localized (within the prostate), locally advanced, or has spread to other areas like bones or lymph nodes. Bone scans and PET-CT imaging can provide a more precise understanding of the disease's spread.

This staging plays a key role in choosing between surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, or combinations.

Personalized Treatment Planning

Based on the stage and type of cancer, one or more treatment strategies are selected:

• Localized cancer may be treated with robotic prostatectomy or precision radiation.
• High-risk or locally advanced cancer may need a combination of radiation and hormone therapy.
• Metastatic cancer often involves hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted treatment.

For patients with slow-growing tumors, active surveillance is sometimes advised to avoid unnecessary side effects.

Delivery of Treatment

Here's how different treatments are typically administered:

• Surgery (robotic or laparoscopic) is scheduled and followed by a short hospital stay of 3–5 days.
• Radiation therapy is delivered over several sessions, typically spanning 5–7 weeks.
• Hormone therapy is given via injections or oral medications every few weeks or months.
• Chemotherapy is usually administered in cycles, spaced 2–3 weeks apart.
• Targeted therapy or immunotherapy, if required, is given in specialized centers with ongoing monitoring.

Treatment is often combined in phases to enhance results—for example, radiation may be followed by hormone therapy to reduce recurrence.

Monitoring and Follow-Up

After the primary treatment is complete, regular PSA testing, imaging scans, and follow-up visits help doctors track your recovery and detect any signs of recurrence early. Many hospitals also offer remote follow-up support for international patients, making long-term care more convenient and accessible.

Success Rate and Treatment Outcomes for Prostate Cancer in India

The success of prostate cancer treatment in India has steadily improved over the years thanks to better diagnostic tools, advanced technology, and personalized treatment strategies. Whether the cancer is caught early or has already advanced, Indian oncologists follow globally accepted protocols that aim for the best possible outcomes.

High Success in Early-Stage Cases

For patients diagnosed at an early stage (localized prostate cancer), the treatment success rate is very high. With timely surgery or radiation therapy, 5-year survival rates can exceed 95%, and in many cases, patients return to a completely normal life.

Advanced tools like robot-assisted surgery and image-guided radiation help reduce complications and improve long-term control over the disease.

Good Outcomes in Advanced Disease

Even in cases where cancer has spread beyond the prostate, outcomes have become much more promising. Treatments such as hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and Lu-177 PSMA therapy have significantly improved symptom control, slowed disease progression, and extended life expectancy.

Patients with metastatic prostate cancer undergoing Lu-177 therapy in India have shown improved overall survival of 12–18 months or more, with better quality of life and reduced pain.

Testimonials

"I got my life back, thanks to Dr. Ankur Bahl and his team." – Michael R., Mali

"When I was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer, I was overwhelmed by the treatment costs in my home country. A friend recommended India, and I came across Dr. Ankur Bahl at Fortis Gurgaon. From the first virtual consultation to the final dose of Lu-177 therapy, everything was smooth, transparent, and handled with care. Today, my PSA levels have dropped significantly, and I feel like myself again."

"Compassionate care and cutting-edge technology – a winning combination." – Rajesh K., Fiji

"I chose Fortis Gurgaon for my prostate surgery under Dr. Bahl's care. What stood out to me was the personal attention I received. Dr. Bahl explained every step in detail, and the robotic surgery went smoothly. I started walking the next day and was discharged within 3 days. The whole experience was far better than I had expected."

"The most affordable and reliable care for prostate cancer." – David M., Nigeria

"My father underwent radiation and hormone therapy under Dr. Ankur Bahl's guidance at Fortis Gurgaon. The cost was nearly 70% less than what we were quoted back home. More importantly, the care was exceptional. We had a dedicated case manager, translator, and everything was arranged before we even landed. He's now back home and doing well."

"Lu-177 therapy gave me a second chance." – Abbas S., Jordan

"After exhausting options in my country, I was introduced to Lu-177 PSMA therapy in India. Dr. Bahl and the nuclear medicine team at Fortis Gurgaon explained everything clearly and thoroughly. After three sessions, my symptoms improved drastically, and my scans showed a major response. I can't thank them enough for this renewed hope."