As the global incidence of breast cancer continues to rise, a prospective study conducted in India sheds light on the significant financial burden faced by patients seeking treatment for this prevalent disease. Breast cancer ranks as the leading type of cancer globally, with 2.3 million cases among the 19 million new cancer diagnoses. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), including India, economic hardship resulting from the high cost of breast cancer treatment is a growing concern.

The study, conducted at the Tata Memorial Centre in Mumbai, involved newly diagnosed, histologically confirmed breast cancer patients who were treatment-naïve. The findings revealed a multitude of economic challenges faced by these patients and their households throughout the treatment journey. Breast cancer treatment typically involves long-term care, including surgery, radiation therapy, and systemic therapies over the course of a year.

Key findings from the study include:

High Out-of-Pocket Payments (OOP): The cost of breast cancer treatment in India is steep, leading to substantial out-of-pocket payments by patients. Many households resort to borrowing, selling assets, and other financial measures to meet the financial burden.

Variability in Treatment Costs: The nature and extent of costs associated with breast cancer treatment vary across countries and are influenced by factors such as the stage of diagnosis, type of therapies used, and the healthcare facility (public vs. private).

Economic Impact on Households: Patients and their accompanying persons often suffer from loss of daily wages, exhaustion of paid leaves, and economic strain due to the prolonged and multifaceted nature of breast cancer treatment.

Geographical Disparities: The concentration of cancer care centers in urban areas poses challenges for patients residing in rural areas, leading to long-distance travel for treatment.

Limited National-Level Data: Existing national-level surveys in India, such as the National Sample Survey and National Family Health Survey, provide limited information on cancer, and studies on the economic burden of breast cancer are few and often based on small-scale, unrepresentative data.

The study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address the financial challenges associated with breast cancer treatment in India. This includes a focus on equitable access to specialized cancer care centers, financial assistance mechanisms, and increased awareness about the economic impact of breast cancer on households.

Breast cancer accounted for 14% of total cancer cases diagnosed in India in 2020, highlighting the increasing prevalence of the disease. The study's insights aim to contribute to the ongoing dialogue on improving financial risk protection, ensuring inclusive cancer care, and promoting better health outcomes for breast cancer patients in India.