Immunotherapy has quickly emerged as one of the most transformative cancer treatment options available today, offering new hope to patients who may not respond well to regular therapies. This advanced medical approach uses the body’s immune system to detect and eliminate cancer cells more effectively and with fewer long-term side effects. As global demand for advanced cancer therapies rises, India has become a preferred destination for international patients due to world-class oncologists, cutting-edge hospital facilities and significantly lower treatment costs. The immunotherapy cost India patients encounter ranges widely, depending on cancer type, treatment protocol and hospital expertise, but remains far more affordable than in Western nations. MediKaya Healthcare stands at the forefront of this treatment journey, guiding international patients with end-to-end support across consultation, treatment coordination, logistics and long-term recovery.
Understanding Immunotherapy – A Modern Breakthrough in Cancer Care
Immunotherapy, also known as biological therapy, stimulates or restores our body’s natural defense system to recognise, attack and destroy cancer cells. Unlike chemotherapy and radiation, which directly kill cancer cells, they can also harm normal body tissues, immunotherapy enhances targeted immune responses, often leading to longer-lasting protection and better quality of life.
Why Immunotherapy Is Considered a Game-Changer
Several factors position immunotherapy as one of the most promising approaches in oncology today-
- It can produce long-term remission in many patients.
- It can be personalised based on genetic and molecular characteristics of the tumour.
- It has fewer systemic side effects than traditional treatments.
- It can be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy or surgery.
Because of such benefits, immunotherapy has become a standard option for cancers such as melanoma, lung cancer, bladder cancer, lymphoma, head and neck cancers, some gastrointestinal cancers and certain paediatric malignancies.
Mechanism of Immunotherapy – How It Works Within the Body
The foundation of immunotherapy relies on the body’s capability to distinguish between normal and abnormal (cancerous) cells. Cancer escapes the immune system by hiding its identity, suppressing immune responses or creating a tumour-friendly environment. Immunotherapy reverses these mechanisms.
Boosting Natural Immune Defence
Immunotherapy increases immune observation so that the body identifies tumour cells as harmful. This intensified response helps immune cells continuously detect and destroy cancer cells that may recur.
Targeting Cancer More Precisely
By using advanced biological molecules or modified immune cells, immunotherapy ensures that the immune attack is focused on cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues.
Long-Term Memory Against Cancer
One of the strongest advantages of immunotherapy is the immune system’s ability to ‘remember’ cancer cells. This reduces the risk of recurrence even after treatment has ended.
Applications of Immunotherapy Across Different Cancer Types
Immunotherapy has expanded significantly from its initial use in melanoma. Today, it is considered an essential component of multi-disciplinary cancer care globally.
Common cancers treated with immunotherapy include-
- Lung cancer – especially non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC).
- Melanoma and other skin cancers.
- Bladder cancer.
- Lymphomas and leukaemia.
- Kidney cancer.
- Head and neck cancers.
- Breast cancer (HER2-positive and triple-negative subtypes).
- Certain colorectal cancers with MSI-high tumours.
Its ability to be customised makes immunotherapy suitable for various stages, from early detection to advanced cancer.
The Process of Immunotherapy – A Step-by-Step Treatment Journey
For international patients seeking immunotherapy in India, the process involves several coordinated steps. MediKaya Healthcare specialises in ensuring smooth, structured and personalised care throughout every stage.
Step 1 – Diagnosis and Oncology Consultation
Before starting immunotherapy, oncologists perform a detailed evaluation to determine whether the patient is eligible. Not all cancers respond to immunotherapy, so diagnostic analysis is crucial.
Diagnostic components may include-
- Complete medical history
- Biopsy and pathological examination
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
- Genetic and molecular profiling
- PET-CT or CT scans
- MRI
- Blood tumour markers
The oncologist identifies-
- The type and stage of cancer
- Whether immunotherapy is suitable
- Expected response rate
- Treatment duration
- Required combination therapies
MediKaya Healthcare assists international patients by scheduling consultations with leading Indian oncologists within hours of receiving medical reports, ensuring no delays in care.
Step 2 – Pre-Treatment Assessment
Pre-treatment investigations ensure the patient’s organs can tolerate immunotherapy drugs and that the therapy will be effective.
These may include-
- Blood panels (CBC, liver function, kidney function)
- ECG or cardiac evaluation
- Viral screenings
- Immune profiling
- Additional imaging tests
This phase also helps estimate the overall immunotherapy cost India patients should expect, as certain tests may repeat throughout treatment.
MediKaya Healthcare arranges diagnostic appointments and facilitates priority testing at partner hospitals.
Step 3 – Types of Immunotherapy Used in India
India offers a full spectrum of immunotherapy modalities, making it a global hub for advanced cancer therapies.
1. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
These are the most widely used immunotherapy drugs. They block proteins that prevent immune cells from attacking cancer.
Common checkpoint inhibitors include-
- PD-1 inhibitors – Pembrolizumab, Nivolumab
- PD-L1 inhibitors – Atezolizumab, Durvalumab
- CTLA-4 inhibitors – Ipilimumab
These medicines are administered intravenously every 2–3 weeks.
2. CAR-T Cell Therapy
CAR-T therapy is one of the most advanced forms of cancer treatment worldwide.
Steps include-
- Collecting the patient’s T-cells
- Genetically modifying them using laboratory techniques
- Expanding modified cells
- Infusing them back into the patient
CAR-T is used primarily for-
- Lymphomas
- Leukaemias
- Multiple myeloma
India has recently developed native CAR-T solutions, significantly reducing costs compared with the US and Europe.
3. Cytokine Therapy
Cytokines such as interferons and interleukins are used to stimulate immune activity.
They are used in cancers like kidney cancer, melanoma and some haematologic malignancies.
4. Cancer Vaccines
These vaccines stimulate the immune system to target specific tumour antigens.
5. Monoclonal Antibody Therapy
These lab-produced molecules detect cancer cells with high precision, helping boost the immune response or deliver toxic payloads directly to tumour sites.
Step 4 – The Treatment Phase
Immunotherapy is usually administered in cycles, with each cycle lasting 2 to 4 weeks depending on the drug type.
Patients visit the hospital for infusion sessions, where medical professionals monitor-
- Vital signs
- Possible immediate reactions
- Treatment tolerance
Most patients can return home on the same day.
MediKaya Healthcare ensures that international patients receive priority appointments and comfortable day-care infusion arrangements.
Step 5 – Post-Treatment Monitoring
After each cycle, patients undergo follow-up tests to assess the tumour’s response. This phase is essential for adjusting the treatment plan.
Monitoring includes-
- Imaging scans every 6–12 weeks
- Blood tests before each cycle
- Assessment for immune-related side effects
Side effects are generally lighter than chemotherapy but may include fatigue, rashes, diarrhoea, mild fever or inflammation of organs. Early detection ensures proper management.
MediKaya Healthcare helps coordinate follow-ups, teleconsultations and long-term recovery planning.
Cost Considerations of Immunotherapy in India
One of the primary reasons patients travel to India for immunotherapy is the significant cost advantage compared with Western countries, where treatment can cost between $10,000 and $40,000 per cycle.
In India, the prices are substantially lower while maintaining international standards of care.
Average Immunotherapy Costs in India
1. Cost per Immunotherapy Cycle
Depending on drug type and hospital-
- ₹80,000 to ₹200,000 per cycle (≈ $960 to $2,400).
Some medications, especially imported ones, may cost-
- ₹200,000 to ₹600,000 per cycle (≈ $2,400 to $7,200).
This wide range accounts for different brands, dosage variations and treatment complexities.
Cost of Advanced Therapies (CAR-T Therapy)
CAR-T cell therapy is more expensive due to complex laboratory procedures and genetic engineering.
Cost in India-
- ₹30,00,000 to ₹60,00,000 (≈ $36,000 to $72,000).
In the United States, CAR-T can cost upward of $350,000, making India a highly cost-effective alternative.
Additional Cost Components
Immunotherapy involves multiple charges beyond the drug cost. These include-
- Diagnostic tests
- Infusion and day-care charges
- Specialist consultations
- Hospital administrative fees
- Post-treatment scans
- Supportive medications
Together, these can add ₹20,000 to ₹60,000 (≈ $240 to $720) per cycle.
MediKaya Healthcare provides transparent cost estimates to international patients, ensuring clarity before treatment begins.
Factors Affecting Immunotherapy Cost in India
Several variables influence the total treatment expense-
- Type of cancer – some cancers require higher-dose or combination immunotherapy.
- Type of drug – imported drugs are more costly than Indian alternatives.
- Hospital – pricing varies between private, premium and government institutions.
- Treatment duration – number of cycles recommended.
- Required combination therapies – chemo-immunotherapy or radio-immunotherapy can increase costs.
- Patient’s condition – advanced cancers may require more aggressive treatment.
MediKaya Healthcare helps optimise these factors by connecting patients with suitable hospitals depending on budget, medical needs and travel convenience.
Why Choose Immunotherapy in India?
India has become a trusted global destination for quality cancer care due to-
- Highly trained oncologists with international experience
- Affordable pricing compared with Western nations
- Advanced infrastructure and technology
- Access to global immunotherapy drugs
- Comprehensive cancer centres offering multidisciplinary care
- Quick treatment initiation, reducing waiting periods
MediKaya Healthcare plays a key role in providing personalised, reliable and transparent medical travel services.
MediKaya Healthcare – Your Trusted Partner for Immunotherapy in India
One of India’s most reputable medical tourism facilitators, MediKaya Healthcare specialising in oncology care and immunotherapy coordination for international patients. With partnerships across leading hospitals, MediKaya Healthcare provides seamless support from the moment the patient makes an enquiry until they safely return home.
Venkateshwar Hospital – A Trusted Name in Immunotherapy Excellence
Many of our cancer patients rely on this renowned hospital for its modern oncology infrastructure and expert specialists like Dr. Sunil Kumar Gupta, Principal Director & HOD (Oncology) with over 33 years of experience. With MediKaya Healthcare coordinating priority appointments, medical reports, travel assistance and personalised care, patients feel supported, reassured and truly cared for from the moment they arrive in India.
Key Benefits of Choosing MediKaya Healthcare
1. Expert Medical Coordination
MediKaya Healthcare connects patients with top oncologists specialising in immunotherapy, ensuring accurate diagnosis and personalised care.
2. End-to-End Assistance
Services include-
- Video consultations
- Treatment planning
- Hospital coordination
- Travel and visa support
- Accommodation arrangements
- Post-treatment follow-ups
3. Transparent Cost Guidance
Patients receive clear breakdowns of the immunotherapy cost India offers, helping them make informed decisions.
4. Dedicated International Patient Support
MediKaya Healthcare staff assist with language interpretation, documentation and cultural guidance.
5. Priority Appointments
Fast-track processes reduce waiting time for diagnosis and treatment initiation.
6. Personalised Care Concierge
From airport pickup to hospital transfers and daily assistance, every step is handled with care.
Immunotherapy vs. Other Cancer Treatment Options
Understanding how immunotherapy compares to other treatments helps patients make confident decisions.
Chemotherapy
- Directly attacks cancer cells but affects healthy cells
- More systemic side effects
Radiation Therapy
- Targets specific tumour areas
- May not treat metastasis
Targeted Therapy
- Works on genetic changes
- Effective for selected cancer types
Immunotherapy
- Enhances natural immune function
- Offers durable and long-term remission
- Can be combined with all above treatments
Because it complements multiple cancer treatment options, oncologists increasingly recommend immunotherapy for personalised care plans.
How MediKaya Healthcare Supports International Patients Receiving Immunotherapy
Pre-Arrival Support
- Reviewing medical records
- Arranging virtual consultations
- Providing estimated treatment plans
- Issuing medical invitation letters for visas
Arrival & Treatment Support
- Airport pickup
- Local transfers
- Dedicated patient coordinator
- Assistance with hospital registration
- Real-time updates for family members
Post-Treatment Support
- Arranging follow-up teleconsultations
- Helping source medicines for home countries
- Travel assistance for safe return
MediKaya Healthcare ensures compassionate, efficient and patient-centric support throughout the cancer care journey.
Conclusion
Immunotherapy has reformed global cancer care by offering targeted, effective and durable treatment outcomes. With its ability to harness the body’s natural defence mechanisms, immunotherapy has become one of the most promising advanced cancer therapies for a wide range of malignancies. India’s expertise, advanced hospital infrastructure and affordability make it a top destination for international patients seeking safe and effective care. The immunotherapy cost India provides is significantly lower than in Western nations while maintaining the highest standards of medical excellence. Among medical tourism facilitators, MediKaya Healthcare stands out for its patient-centric approach, transparent guidance and comprehensive treatment coordination. For patients exploring suitable cancer treatment options, MediKaya Healthcare provides trusted, high-quality support, making the complex journey of cancer treatment smoother, safer and more reassuring.
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