Lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, can be a challenging condition. However, India has emerged as a ray of hope for individuals seeking affordable and high-quality lymphoma treatment. In this blog, we will go through the conditions and different treatment options of lymphoma and explore the various aspects that make it a cost-effective and reliable choice for patients in India.
Understanding Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is a part of the body’s immune system. It occurs in the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, and can develop in the lymph nodes, spleen (vital organ located in the upper-left side of the abdomen, just beneath the ribcage), bone marrow and other areas. There are two main types of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non- Hodgkin lymphoma. Each type has different subtypes and can require different treatment approaches.
Symptoms of lymphoma
Some common symptoms of lymphoma include swollen lymph nodes, fever, weight loss, and fatigue. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Investigation Stage
For an appropriate treatment accurate diagnosis is essential. Doctor will use tests like biopsies, blood tests, scans like CT and PET to identify the stage and size of the lymphoma. Each test will perform a different role to diagnose the condition.
Biopsies: help identify the specific type of abnormal cell present.
Blood Tests: can show abnormal cell counts.
CT and PET scans: CT scans provide detailed images of the body’s internal structures, helping doctors locate enlarged lymph nodes and identify any organ involvement. PET scans use a radioactive tracer to detect areas with increased metabolic activity, which can indicate the presence of lymphoma and help determine its stage.
Treatment Approaches
The treatment of lymphoma depends on several factors, including the type of lymphoma, its stage, patient’s overall health, and other individual aspects. Here are the different treatment options for lymphoma:
Active Surveillance
In slow-growing lymphomas, doctor may decide to wait to treat lymphoma. This involves closely monitoring the patient’s condition without immediate treatment, i.e. they will observe the disease to determine if treatment is necessary.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves the use of powerful drugs to kill the growth of cancer cells. It is a common treatment for both Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas. Chemotherapy preparation vary based on the type and stage of lymphoma.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, is a common and effective treatment which involves the use of high-energy radiation to target and destroy cancer cells or to prevent their growth.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy drugs use your immune system to kill cancer cells. Checkpoint inhibitors and CAR-T cell therapy are more recent developments in immunotherapy for lymphoma.
Targeted Therapy
In target therapy treatment drugs or other substances are used to kill cancer cells involved in the growth and survival of cancer.
Stem Cell Transplantation
Stem cell transplantation, also known as a bone marrow transplant, may be considered for certain high-risk or relapsed lymphomas. It involves replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells to restore the immune system.
India as a best option for lymphoma treatment
India is often considered a top choice for lymphoma treatment due to various reasons:
Advanced medical facilities
India is known for its advanced medical infrastructure and state-of-the-art facilities. Many hospitals and cancer treatment centers in India are equipped with the latest technology and equipment to provide high-quality care for lymphoma patients. Some of these includes Jaypee Hospital, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Metro Heart Institute with Multispeciality etc.
Experienced Medical Professionals
India has a large pool of highly skilled and experienced doctors, oncologists, and medical professionals specializing in cancer treatment. These professionals are well- trained and keep up with the latest advancements in lymphoma treatment.
Cost- Effective Treatment
One of the major advantages of seeking lymphoma treatment in India is the affordability factor. The cost of treatment, including chemotherapy, Radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and other procedures, is significantly lower compared to many other countries. This makes it a more accessible option for patients seeking affordable healthcare.
Conclusion
The choice of treatment depends on the stage or growth of the lymphoma and the condition of a patient. India cater most affordable and high-quality lymphoma treatment with its world-class healthcare infrastructure, renowned medical professionals, cost-effective treatment options, access to cutting-edge technology and many more.
