🌐 What Is Targeted Therapy?

Targeted therapy is a form of cancer treatment that focuses on specific genes, proteins, or the tissue environment that contributes to cancer growth and survival. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which affects both healthy and cancerous cells, targeted therapy aims to interfere with cancer cell growth and progression while minimizing damage to normal cells.VS Hospitals

🧪 Types of Targeted Therapies Available in India

India offers a range of targeted therapy options, including:

1. Monoclonal Antibodies

These are lab-produced molecules that can bind to specific targets on cancer cells. For example, trastuzumab (Herceptin) targets the HER2 protein in certain breast cancers.

2. Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs)

TKIs block enzymes called tyrosine kinases, which are involved in many cell functions, including cell signaling, growth, and division. Examples include imatinib (Gleevec) for chronic myeloid leukemia and erlotinib for non-small cell lung cancer.

3. Proteasome Inhibitors

These drugs block proteasomes, which help break down proteins in cells. By inhibiting proteasomes, these drugs can cause cancer cells to die. Bortezomib is an example used in multiple myeloma treatment.

4. Angiogenesis Inhibitors

These therapies block the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. Bevacizumab (Avastin) is one such drug used in various cancers.

🎯 Cancers Treated with Targeted Therapy in India

Targeted therapy has shown effectiveness in treating various cancers, including:

• Breast cancer (HER2-positive)

• Non-small cell lung cancer (EGFR mutations)

• Colorectal cancer (KRAS wild-type)

• Chronic myeloid leukemia (BCR-ABL fusion gene)

• Kidney cancer

• Liver cancer

• Head and neck cancersen.wikipedia.orgVS Hospitalsen.wikipedia.org+13verywellhealth.com+13timesofindia.indiatimes.com+13

The effectiveness of targeted therapy often depends on the specific molecular characteristics of the cancer cells and the presence of the targeted molecules. Integrated Cancer Care Group+1VS Hospitals+1

💡 Advantages of Targeted Therapy

• Personalized Treatment: Tailored to the individual's cancer profile, increasing effectiveness.

• Fewer Side Effects: By focusing on cancer cells, there's less damage to normal cells.

• Effective for Specific Cancers: Particularly beneficial for cancers with known genetic mutations.

• Improved Quality of Life: Patients often experience fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.

💰 Cost of Targeted Therapy in India

India offers targeted therapy at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries, without compromising on quality. The cost can vary widely depending on the type of therapy and the hospital. amerixcancer.com

🏥 Leading Hospitals Offering Targeted Therapy in India

Several top-tier hospitals in India provide advanced targeted therapy treatments:

• Max Healthcare

• BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital

• Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital

• Fortis Hospital

• Apollo Hospital

These institutions are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and experienced oncology teams.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is targeted therapy suitable for all cancer patients?
Not all patients are candidates for targeted therapy. Eligibility depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the presence of specific genetic markers. A thorough evaluation by an oncologist is necessary.Integrated Cancer Care Group

Q2: What are the side effects of targeted therapy?
Side effects can include fatigue, diarrhea, liver problems, and skin rashes. However, they are generally less severe than those associated with chemotherapy.

Q3: How is targeted therapy administered?
Depending on the drug, targeted therapy can be administered orally in pill form or intravenously.

Q4: Can international patients access targeted therapy in India?
Yes, international patients are welcome. Hospitals in India offer comprehensive support, including medical visas, accommodation, and language assistance.

Q5: How can I start treatment in India?
You can begin by contacting us at InternationalCancerCare.com. Our team will guide you through the process, from medical consultations to travel arrangements.

For personalized assistance and to learn more about our services, visit InternationalCancerCare.com.