Treatment for Lung Cancer

Learn about world-class treatment options for Lung in India.

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About Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a disease where abnormal cells grow in the lungs, forming tumors. It can spread quickly to other parts of the body

Includes

  • Lung cancer (NSCLC, SCLC)
  • Lung nodules or masses
  • Pneumothorax or collapsed lung
  • Recurrent pleural effusion
  • Tuberculosis complications
  • Bronchiectasis
  • Lobectomy, pneumonectomy, thoracoscopy (VATS)

Top Treatment Options

Lobectomy

Lobectomy is a surgical procedure to remove one lobe of the lung, commonly done to treat lung cancer, severe tuberculosis, or lung abscess. It can be done through open surgery or minimally invasive techniques like VATS (Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery).

Advantages
  • 1. Removes diseased tissue, increasing the chance of cure in early-stage lung cancer.
  • 2. Improves breathing and quality of life if the lobe was dysfunctional.
  • 3. May prevent cancer spread to other lung regions.
Limitations
  • 1. Major surgery – carries risks like bleeding, infection, or pneumonia.
  • 2. Reduced lung capacity, especially in patients with pre-existing lung disease.
  • 3. Recovery time can be several weeks, longer for open surgery.

Chemotherapy (Cisplatin-based)

Cisplatin-based chemotherapy is a powerful anti-cancer drug regimen used to treat various cancers such as lung, cervical, ovarian, head & neck, and bladder cancer. It works by damaging DNA in cancer cells, stopping them from multiplying.

Advantages
  • 1. Effective against many solid tumors—especially when combined with other drugs.
  • 2. Can shrink tumors before surgery or radiation (neoadjuvant therapy).
  • 3. May prevent recurrence when used after surgery (adjuvant therapy).
Limitations
  • 1. Strong side effects – nausea, kidney damage, hearing loss, and nerve damage.
  • 2. Requires multiple cycles, often with hospital visits and monitoring.
  • 3. May lower immunity, increasing infection risk.

Targeted Therapy (EGFR/ALK Inhibitors like Osimertinib)

Targeted therapy using drugs like Osimertinib is used to block specific mutations (e.g. EGFR, ALK) that drive cancer growth, especially in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It works by attacking cancer cells only, sparing most healthy cells.

Advantages
  • 1. More precise treatment – targets cancer-driving genes with less damage to healthy cells.
  • 2. Fewer side effects than chemotherapy (less hair loss, nausea).
  • 3. Convenient oral tablets – often taken at home, reducing hospital visits.
Limitations
  • 1. Works only in patients with specific gene mutations (needs prior testing).
  • 2. Can cause resistance over time, requiring switch in drugs.
  • 3. High cost, especially for newer or branded drugs.

Immunotherapy (e.g., Nivolumab, Pembrolizumab)

Immunotherapy uses drugs like Nivolumab or Pembrolizumab to boost the body’s immune system so it can recognize and attack cancer cells, especially in cancers like lung, melanoma, kidney, and head & neck cancers.

Advantages
  • 1. Targets cancer more naturally – by activating your own immune system.
  • 2. Fewer long-term side effects compared to chemotherapy.
  • 3. Can lead to durable, long-lasting remission in some patients.
Limitations
  • 1. Doesn’t work for everyone – only effective in some cancer types with specific markers (e.g. PD-L1).
  • 2. Can cause autoimmune side effects (e.g., thyroid issues, skin rash, inflammation).
  • 3. Expensive and often requires multiple doses over months.

SBRT (Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy)

SBRT is a highly precise form of radiation that delivers very focused, high-dose radiation to tumors (especially in lung, spine, liver, or prostate), in fewer sessions compared to traditional radiotherapy.

Advantages
  • 1. Non-invasive and painless – no surgery required.
  • 2. Fewer sessions (1–5 treatments) compared to 30+ in conventional radiation.
  • 3. High accuracy means less damage to nearby healthy tissues.
Limitations
  • 1. Not suitable for large or widespread tumors.
  • 2. Requires advanced technology and specialists, limiting access in some centers.
  • 3. Potential for delayed side effects like fatigue or radiation injury.

Disclaimer: The treatment options described are for general informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Final treatment decisions are made by qualified medical professionals after clinical evaluation.

Top Hospitals for Lung Cancer

MediBridge works with India's leading hospitals in Lung Cancer, trusted globally for advanced technology, experienced specialists, and high treatment success rates.

Every patient's situation is unique—factors like the stage of illness, required treatment type, recovery needs, and budget determine which hospital is best. That's why we don't publish a generic list. Instead, we offer personalized hospital matching to ensure you get the best care at the right cost.

👉 Kindly contact our Patient Coordinator to guide you in selecting the most suitable hospital for Lung Cancer.

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Cost Estimate

Treatment Cost

Treatment Cost (USD) Cost (KES)
Lobectomy $5,000 – $9,000 650,000 – 1,170,000
Chemotherapy (Cisplatin-based) $2,000 – $5,000 260,000 – 650,000
Targeted Therapy (EGFR/ALK Inhibitors like Osimertinib) $1,500 – $3,500 per month 195,000 – 455,000 per month
Immunotherapy (e.g., Nivolumab, Pembrolizumab) $2,500 – $5,000 325,000 – 650,000
SBRT (Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy) $3,000 – $7,000 390,000 – 910,000
Note: Prices may slightly vary due to changing exchange rates.

Flight (NBO-DEL/MUM/BLR)

USD: $450 - $900 (Return)

KES: 58,000 - 117,000

Accommodation

USD: $800 - $1,500 (per month)

KES: 104,000 - 195,000

Post Care Costs

USD: $80 - $500 (per month)

KES: 10,400 - 65,000

Ready to Find Your Solution for Lung Cancer?

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