Revolutionizing cancer treatment in India: Evaluating the unmet need, economics, and a roadmap for project implementation of particle therapy

Abstract

IntroductionThis study aims to quantitatively assess eligible patients and project the demand for particle therapy facilities in India from 2020 to 2040. In addition, an economic analysis evaluates the financial feasibility of implementing this technology. The study also examines the prospective benefits and challenges of adopting this technology in India.MethodologyCancer incidence and projected trends were analyzed for pediatric patients using the Global Childhood Cancer microsimulation model and adult patients using the Globocan data. Economic cost evaluation is performed for large‐scale combined particle (carbon and proton‐three room fixed‐beam), large‐scale proton (one gantry and two fixed‐beam), and small‐scale proton (one gantry) facility.ResultsBy 2040, the estimated number of eligible patients for particle therapy is projected to reach 161,000, including approximately 14,000 pediatric cases. The demand for particle therapy facilities is projected to rise from 81 to 97 in 2020 to 121 to 146 by 2040. The capital expenditure is estimated to be only 3.7 times that of a standard photon linear accelerator over a 30‐year period. Notably, the treatment cost can be reduced to USD 400 to 800 per fraction, substantially lower than that in high‐income countries (USD 1000 to 3000 per fraction).ConclusionThis study indicates that, in the Indian scenario, all particle therapy models are cost‐beneficial and feasible, with large‐scale proton therapy being the most suitable. Despite challenges such as limited resources, space, a skilled workforce, referral systems, and patient affordability, it offers substantial benefits. These include the potential to treat many patients and convenient construction and operational costs. An iterative phased implementation strategy can effectively overcome these challenges, paving the way for the successful adoption of particle therapy in India.Plain Language Summary In India, eligible patients benefiting from high‐precision particle therapy technology projected to rise till 2040. Despite high upfront costs, our study finds the long‐term feasibility of all particle therapy models, potentially offering a substantial reduction in treatment cost compared to high‐income countries. Despite challenges, India can succeed with an iterative phased approach.

Preliminary result of combined treatment with scanning carbon-ion radiotherapy and image-guided brachytherapy for locally advanced cervical adenocarcinoma

“…In addition, the number of CIRT facilities is limited worldwide, with 14 worldwide and 7 in Japan as of 2023. However, the number of facilities has been increasing recently and there are now ~20 facilities including those under construction [ 49 ]. On the other hand, reports of CIRT for cervical cancer have been limited to Japan, and clinical trials aimed at establishing further high-level evidence and global development are desired [ 8–10 , 15 ].…”