India’s cancer burden continues to rise sharply, with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) estimating over 14 lakh new cancer cases in 2023 and nearly 100 diagnoses per one lakh population each year. Against this backdrop, the government’s decision to waive basic customs duty on 17 essential cancer drugs has been welcomed by doctors as a potential turning point in easing treatment costs and improving access, especially as the country marks World Cancer Day.
Price relief welcome but impact depends on patient reach
Cancer specialists say the true value of the duty waiver will be measured by how quickly it translates into relief for patients. “Although the budget announcement is important, it is only when patients feel the difference in their lives that the real difference will be felt,” said Dr Arun Kumar Giri, Director – Surgical Oncology, Aakash Healthcare. He said that pharmacies and hospitals are already adjusting prices, raising hopes that benefits will reach patients soon.
Calling the move aligned with patient-focused cancer care, Dr Giri added that lower prices for life-saving drugs offer “hope and relief to thousands of patients across India”, describing it as more than a policy shift for families battling cancer.
World Cancer Day spotlight on access and personalised treatment
This week’s World Cancer Day observed under the theme ‘United by Unique’ has reinforced the need for patient-centric and personalised care, experts said.
“When patients can access medicines without delay or financial stress, their recovery chances improve significantly,” said Dr Puneet Gupta, Chairman – Oncology Services, Asian Hospital. He added that the policy change allows hospitals to plan treatment more effectively and ensures critical therapies reach patients on time.
Dr Gupta also pointed out that the cancer treatment burden is growing rapidly in rural areas and smaller towns, where many patients lack insurance coverage. Strengthening detection and treatment facilities in government hospitals, along with affordability measures, could play a major role in controlling the disease and saving lives, he said.
Often-ignored complications: mobility, neurology and women’s cancers
Specialists highlighted that cancer care goes beyond chemotherapy and radiation. “Bone metastasis and cancer-related fractures can severely affect a patient’s independence,” said Dr Manav Luthra, Consultant – Orthopaedics and Spine, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Kanpur.
Early orthopaedic intervention, he said, helps preserve mobility and enables uninterrupted cancer treatment. Dr Luthra also warned that neurological symptoms such as persistent headaches, seizures or unexplained weakness should never be ignored as they may be early signs of cancer involvement in the brain or nerves.
Research indicating that 20–40% of cancer patients develop complications underlines the need for multidisciplinary care, doctors said.
“Gynaecological cancers such as breast and uterine cancer are among the most preventable and treatable when detected early,” said Dr Manini Patel, Senior Consultant – Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Jaipur. She emphasised regular screening, HPV vaccination and awareness of warning signs like abnormal bleeding, noting that social stigma and delayed care continue to cost lives.
Beyond medicines: insurance, supportive care and quality of life
Surgeons and policy observers said the drug duty waiver must be part of a broader care ecosystem.
“This is part of a bigger push to strengthen healthcare access,” said Dr Jaipalreddy, Consultant – Surgical Oncology, Jupiter Hospital, Pune, pointing to investments in regional healthcare hubs and caregiver training as key to improving treatment journeys.
Specialised care will also benefit, according to Dr Vineet Malhotra, Head of Urology and Director, VNA Hospital, who said imported and rare cancer drugs had earlier been prohibitively expensive. “Reducing import duties ensures patients receive the right treatment on time and eases both financial and health burdens,” he said.
Experts also see spillover effects on insurance coverage. Lower drug prices may allow insurers to cover treatments more easily, reducing out-of-pocket expenses and encouraging timely care, Dr Giri added.
Highlighting survivorship and rehabilitation, Prof. Dr Debraj Shome, Senior Cosmetic Surgeon and Clinician Scientist, QR678® Research Platform said the focus must move beyond survival to long-term quality of life. Clinically validated reconstructive and regenerative treatments, including post-cancer hair restoration, should be seen as integral to recovery, he said, advocating insurance coverage and GST rationalisation to build a more holistic healthcare financing framework.
Backing this trend, insurance industry data suggests Indian consumers are opting for broader and more preventive-focused coverage.
Manish Dodeja, Chief Operating Officer, Care Health Insurance said consumers are increasingly seeking comprehensive health cover while becoming more tech-savvy and prevention-focused. “Customers are prioritising preventive healthcare, lifestyle care and digital ease. We are investing in technology to make health insurance simpler, more accessible and adaptable to evolving needs,” he said.
Care Health Insurance has also seen higher sum insured across age groups, with families opting for increased cover for children, strong participation from first-time buyers aged 18–35, and a growing share of senior citizens. Claims data shows a rising burden of lifestyle diseases, including cancer, alongside infections and age-related conditions. Digital engagement has surged, with more customers using online renewals, app-based claims, wellness tools and preventive features as part of comprehensive health security.
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