What is Thyroid Cancer?
Thyroid cancer is a malignancy that develops in the thyroid gland—a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck that regulates metabolism through hormone production. While generally treatable, its incidence is on the rise, particularly among women and in regions like Kerala, India. The most common types—papillary and follicular—are considered well-differentiated and often have a favorable prognosis if detected early.
Treatment options for thyroid cancer include:
- Surgery (e.g., thyroidectomy – partial or total removal of the thyroid)
- Radioactive iodine therapy – to destroy remaining cancer cells
- External beam radiation or chemotherapy – for advanced or aggressive types
- Targeted or hormone therapy – depending on cancer type and stage
- Minimally invasive or robotic-assisted thyroidectomy – where available, to reduce scarring and improve recovery
The disease is often identified early due to increased screening, leading to high five-year survival rates of over 98%, especially for papillary cancers. However, more aggressive forms like anaplastic thyroid cancer remain challenging to treat.
Why Choose India for Thyroid Cancer Treatment?
India is a top destination for thyroid cancer care due to its combination of medical expertise, affordability, and advanced infrastructure. Major Tier 1 hospitals in Delhi and NCR—including Apollo Hospitals, Fortis Healthcare, Max Super Speciality Hospital, and BLK-Max Hospital—offer cutting-edge surgical and non-surgical treatments for all types of thyroid cancer. These institutions are equipped with:
- Internationally trained oncologists and endocrine surgeons
- Advanced imaging, robotic-assisted surgery, and radioactive iodine therapy
- Multidisciplinary teams for personalized treatment and post-op care
- Comprehensive support for international patients, including visa assistance and interpreters
With lower treatment costs than Western countries and minimal waiting times, India is an excellent option for effective, timely, and patient-centric thyroid cancer care.
Cost & Duration Summary
Average Cost in India: USD 3,000 – 6,000
Hospital Stay Required: 3 – 7 days (depending on surgery type)
Post-Treatment Stay in India: 2 – 3 weeks (for recovery and follow-up)