Cancer remains a pressing public health issue in India, with its prevalence steadily rising. In 2022, India recorded around 1.46 million new cancer cases, reflecting a crude incidence rate of 100.4 per 100,000 people. This number is projected to grow, highlighting the escalating burden of cancer on the nation.
The financial strain of cancer treatment is immense, varying based on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the treatment methods used. For example, surgical procedures can cost anywhere between ₹2.8 lakh to ₹10.5 lakh, while each chemotherapy session may range from ₹18,000 to ₹40,000. Radiation therapy adds to the financial load, with costs depending on the technique and duration of treatment.
These exorbitant expenses often result in significant out-of-pocket spending (OOPE) for patients and their families. Reports indicate that OOPE for cancer treatment in India can range from ₹34,816 for cancers like head and neck, breast, and cervical cancers, to as high as ₹3.35 lakh for palliative care. Such financial strain can lead to catastrophic health expenditures, pushing families into poverty and forcing many to abandon or delay treatment.
The Rising Cancer Burden in India
Cancer cases in India have been steadily increasing, driven by factors such as an aging population, lifestyle changes, and better diagnostic tools. In 2021, the projected cancer burden was 26.7 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), expected to rise to 29.8 million by 2025.
Breast cancer, in particular, has become the most common cancer among Indian women, accounting for 27% of all female cancer cases. In 2012, India reported 144,937 new breast cancer cases and 70,218 deaths. The risk of breast cancer begins to rise in the early thirties, peaking between ages 50 and 64, with a lifetime risk of 1 in 28 women developing the disease.
This growing cancer burden underscores the need for effective prevention, early detection, and affordable treatment options to ease the financial and emotional toll on patients and their families.
Government Efforts to Lower Cancer Drug Costs
Acknowledging the financial challenges of cancer treatment, the Indian government has launched several initiatives to reduce drug prices and improve accessibility.
One key initiative is the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), which provides high-quality generic medicines at affordable prices through Janaushadhi Kendras. By March 2025, over 9,000 such centers had been set up across the country, offering medicines at 50–90% lower prices than branded alternatives. This program has been a game-changer for patients requiring long-term medication, including those undergoing cancer treatment.
Additionally, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has played a crucial role in regulating the prices of essential medicines, including cancer drugs. By capping prices and promoting generics, the NPPA has ensured that life-saving drugs remain accessible to the average Indian.
Impact on Indian Families
The reduction in cancer drug prices has been transformative for Indian families, especially those from low- and middle-income backgrounds. Affordable treatment options have improved access to medications, leading to better adherence and outcomes. Families are now less likely to face financial ruin due to medical expenses, preserving their economic stability and overall well-being.
Moreover, the availability of affordable drugs has encouraged early diagnosis and timely treatment, which are critical for improving survival rates. Patients are more likely to seek medical help at the first sign of symptoms, knowing that effective and affordable treatments are within reach.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
Despite these advancements, challenges persist. Ensuring the consistent quality of generic medicines and expanding affordability initiatives to remote and underserved areas remain key hurdles. Strict quality control measures and continuous monitoring are essential to maintain public trust in generic drugs.
Additionally, while customs duty exemptions and price reductions have made treatments more affordable, further steps like reducing taxes on cancer drugs and diagnostic scans could provide additional relief. Industry experts have called for the elimination of taxes on these medications, emphasizing that most healthcare expenses in India are paid out-of-pocket, making treatments prohibitively expensive for many.
Conclusion
The Indian government’s efforts to reduce cancer drug costs are making a tangible difference, easing the financial burden on families and improving access to vital treatments. Initiatives like the NPPA’s price regulations, customs duty exemptions, and the expansion of PMBJP Kendras are crucial steps toward a more equitable healthcare system. By addressing existing challenges and continuing these efforts, India can ensure that all families have access to affordable and effective cancer care, ultimately improving public health outcomes nationwide.