The Future of CAR T-Cell Therapy in India: What Patients Need to Know
CAR T-cell therapy is transforming the way that cancer is treated by employing the patient’s immune cells to target and eliminate cancer. This groundbreaking treatment, which was previously only available in prestigious international centers, is now available in India. Due to advancements like ImmunoACT’s NexCAR19, one of the most affordable CAR T therapies available worldwide,
In this article, we’ll explore the future of CAR T-cell therapy in India, its current availability and cost, and what patients need to know before starting their treatment journey.
What Is CAR T-Cell Therapy?
CAR T-cell therapy is a cutting-edge cancer treatment that uses a patient’s immune T cells to recognize and attack cancer cells. It is a type of personalized immunotherapy used to treat relapsed or treatment-resistant blood cancers like leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
India is becoming a hub for affordable CAR T-cell therapy, thanks to innovations like ImmunoACT’s NexCAR19, which costs around ₹40 lakhs—one of the lowest globally.
CAR T-cell therapy is an immunotherapy type and a specialized treatment where a patient’s immune T cells are genetically modified in a lab setting. Initially, T cells are extracted from the patient’s blood. Next, these cells are engineered to express a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) that binds to specific proteins found on the surface of cancer cells. This modification enables the T cells to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively.
The modified CAR T cells are then cultured in large quantities in the laboratory before being reintroduced into the patient’s body through infusion. This innovative therapy is primarily used to treat certain types of blood cancers and is currently under investigation for its potential in treating other forms of cancer. CAR T-cell therapy is also known as chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy.
Also Read: What is Car T-Cell Therapy in India
What to Do Next: A Patient’s Step-by-Step Action Plan
If you or a loved one is considering CAR T-cell therapy, here’s a simplified roadmap to help you make informed decisions:
Consult a Haematologist-Oncologist.
Talk with an expert consultant to determine if you’re eligible. Factors like
- Cancer type
- Stage and prior treatments
- Overall health will influence your treatment plan.
Check for your cancer type.
CAR T-cell therapy is currently approved for the following blood cancers:
- B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
- Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL)
- Multiple Myeloma
- Follicular Lymphoma
- Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Primary Mediastinal B-cell Lymphoma
If you are diagnosed with any of these, CAR-T therapy may be an option.
Choose a Certified CAR T-Cell Therapy Center
Look for a cancer hospital or institute with specialized lab facilities, CAR T-cell therapy approval, and experience managing infusion and post-treatment complications.
Understand the Cost of CAR T-Cell Therapy in India
The average cost is up to ₹40 lakh. Make sure to inquire about the detailed cost breakdown, insurance coverage or private reimbursement options, clinical trials, or government-supported subsidies.
Prepare for the Therapy Process.
Before the infusion, you will
- T-cell collection (leukapheresis)
- Bridging therapy or lymphodepleting chemotherapy (to strengthen your immune system)
- Post-infusion care planning, including someone to help you recover
Stay Near the Hospital Post-Treatment
You may need to remain close to your treatment center for 30-60 days to monitor potential side effects such as:
- Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS)
- Neurological issues
Note: Prompt medical care during this phase is critical.
A New Era for Cancer Care in India
CAR T-cell therapy is transforming cancer treatment by utilizing your own immune cells to destroy cancer. While the procedure remains costly and complex, India is leading the way in making it more accessible and affordable.
With advancements like NexCAR19 and increased government support, this life-saving therapy is becoming more accessible to patients in need.
Are you ready to learn more about CAR T-cell therapy?
- Schedule a consultation with a certified CAR T-cell therapy provider.
- Inquire about clinical trials, subsidies, and financial support.
- Request a personalized cost estimate and treatment plan from a recognized cancer center.
FAQs
What is the success rate of CAR T-cell therapy?
Certain blood cancers show a high success rate with CAR T-cell therapy, particularly in patients who have not responded to other treatments. Long-term remission is possible in certain cases.
Is CAR T-cell therapy available in India?
Yes, CAR T-cell therapy is available in India. NexCAR19 (by ImmunoACT) is currently the world’s most affordable CAR T-cell therapy, and it is being administered in select centers across India.
How long does CAR T-cell therapy take?
The entire procedure, from cell collection to infusion, can take 3 to 6 weeks, with 30-60 days of close monitoring after treatment.
What are the possible side effects of CAR T-cell therapy?
Common side effects include the following:
- Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS)
- Neurological symptoms (confusion, seizures)
- Low blood counts
- Low immunity
These are usually manageable with specialized care.
Is there insurance coverage for CAR T-cell therapy in India?
Currently, most private insurance policies do not fully cover it, but some clinical trials, research programs, and government initiatives may provide financial assistance or partial coverage.
Which hospitals in India offer CAR T-cell therapy?
CAR T-cell therapy is available in select tertiary cancer centers across India, including top institutions in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai. Always check the hospital’s certification and clinical experience before proceeding.
