Blood Cancer Treatment in India

Overview

A type of cancer that affects your blood cells is called blood cancer. Myeloma, lymphoma, and leukemia are among the most prevalent forms. There are more varieties such as MPNs and MDS.

DNA mutations in blood cells are the root cause of blood cancer. These are often linked to external factors and are not inherited.

Blood cancer treatment in India must be performed by a board-certified hematologist-oncologist. The success rate is around 60%, and timely surgery improves outcomes. The treatment is quite affordable compared to other countries.

What Is Blood Cancer?

Blood cancer affects how your body creates and uses blood cells. Most originate in bone marrow, where red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets develop.

Blood cancer leads to excessive abnormal blood cells, affecting immune function, oxygen delivery, and bleeding control.

Types of Blood Cancer

Leukemia

Affects blood-forming tissues like bone marrow and lymph system. Common types include:

• Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
• Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
• Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)

Lymphoma

Starts in the lymphatic system. Types include:

• Hodgkin Lymphoma
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)

Myeloma

Affects plasma cells, impairing immune function by pushing out healthy bone marrow cells.

Symptoms of Blood Cancer

• Fatigue and weakness
• Chronic fever
• Drenching night sweats
• Unusual bruises or bleeding
• Unexplained weight loss
• Recurrent infections
• Swollen lymph nodes, liver, or spleen
• Bone pain

Diagnosis of Blood Cancer

Tests vary based on type. They include:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Measures blood cell levels
• Blood Chemistry Test: Assesses blood compounds
• CT Scan: 3D soft tissue and bone imaging
• MRI Scan: Detects spinal involvement
• PET Scan: Shows active tissues/organs
• Bone Marrow Biopsies: Analyzes bone marrow samples
• Blood Cell Examination: Microscopic blood analysis

Treatment Options

Treatment varies by cancer type, stage, age, and overall health:

Chemotherapy

Main treatment. Uses drugs to destroy cancer cells.

Radiation Therapy

Damages DNA of cancer cells. Often used with other treatments or to manage symptoms.

Immunotherapy

Enhances immune system to fight cancer cells.

Targeted Therapy

Attacks specific gene mutations or protein abnormalities.

CAR T-cell Therapy

Genetically modified T-cells target cancer. Used for some advanced blood cancers.

Stem Cell Transplant

Replaces unhealthy blood-forming cells. Sourced from bone marrow, blood, or umbilical cord.

Cost Factors

• Post-operative care
• Hospital preferences
• Doctor’s expertise
• Patient’s condition and treatment scope
• Hospitalization duration
• Type of hospital and room

Global Care India offers affordable and high-quality treatment with leading specialists.

Choosing a Hospital

Consider these:

• Accreditations (e.g., NABH, JCI)
• Hospital location and transport
• Doctor and surgeon team
• Diagnostic and treatment equipment
• International patient support

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Blood Cancer Curable?
A: No known cure. Patients may achieve remission but cancer can recur.

Q: How Long Can Someone with Blood Cancer Survive?
A: Varies by type. Example: CLL 5-year survival is 88.2%, Hodgkin Lymphoma is 88.5%, NHL is 77%.

Q: Is the Spread of Blood Cancer Rapid?
A: Acute leukemia progresses fast; chronic forms are slower.

Q: What Is the Primary Cause of Blood Cancer?
A: A mix of environmental and genetic factors; linked to smoking, radiation, certain chemicals.