India has achieved a milestone in the field of cancer treatment with the successful implementation of indigenous CAR-T cell therapy. The cutting-edge therapy has declared its first patient ‘cancer-free,’ marking a momentous stride in the country’s healthcare landscape. Notably, this achievement is coupled with a remarkable cost advantage, as the patient paid a fraction of the cost compared to undergoing a similar treatment abroad.
Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy, commonly known as CAR-T cell therapy, has emerged as a revolutionary approach in cancer treatment. This personalized immunotherapy involves modifying a patient’s own T cells to target cancer cells more effectively. The technique has shown remarkable success in treating certain types of cancers, heralding a new era in oncology.
The recent success story in India is particularly significant as it highlights the prowess of indigenous medical innovation. The CAR-T cell therapy administered to declare a patient ‘cancer-free’ was developed and implemented within the country. This achievement not only underscores India’s growing capabilities in medical research and innovation but also positions the nation as a key player in the global healthcare landscape.
One of the standout aspects of this achievement is the significant cost advantage for the patient. While the same treatment can cost exorbitant amounts abroad, the patient in India underwent the indigenous CAR-T cell therapy by paying just 42 lakhs, a fraction of the estimated 4 crore expense for a similar procedure overseas. This affordability factor not only makes cutting-edge treatments accessible to a broader population but also positions India as a cost-effective destination for advanced medical interventions.
The success of indigenous CAR-T cell therapy is a testament to the strides India is making in transforming cancer care. The treatment’s effectiveness in declaring a patient ‘cancer-free’ showcases its potential to become a game-changer in managing and potentially curing certain types of cancers. As more patients benefit from such advancements, it opens doors for enhanced healthcare outcomes and improved quality of life.
The success of indigenous CAR-T cell therapy is not confined to national borders. It reverberates globally, drawing attention to India’s capabilities in delivering world-class medical interventions. The achievement is expected to boost confidence in Indian healthcare providers and attract international patients seeking high-quality treatments at a fraction of the cost available in many developed nations.
The declaration of the first patient as ‘cancer-free’ using indigenous CAR-T cell therapy heralds a promising future for medical innovation in India. As research and development continue to flourish, the nation is poised to become a hub for cutting-edge medical treatments, contributing to global advancements in healthcare.
What is CAR-T cell therapy?
CAR-T cell therapy is a form of immunotherapy that entails genetically modifying a patient’s T cells to target and combat cancer cells. T cells, a subset of white blood cells crucial for infection defense, are extracted from the patient, undergo genetic modification in the laboratory to express a specialized protein known as a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR), and are subsequently reintroduced into the patient. The CAR protein facilitates T cells in recognizing and attacking cancer cells.
Indigenous CAR-T cell therapy in India
India has achieved noteworthy strides in the development of its indigenous CAR-T cell therapy. In October 2023, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), India’s regulatory authority for pharmaceuticals, granted approval for the commercial utilization of NexCAR19, the inaugural CAR-T cell therapy developed domestically. ImmunoACT, a venture incubated at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IITB) and Tata Memorial Hospital, is the driving force behind NexCAR19. This innovative therapy is specifically designed to address B-cell cancers, including leukemia and lymphoma.
In celebrating the success of the first patient declared ‘cancer-free’ through indigenous CAR-T cell therapy, India marks a significant medical milestone. The achievement resonates with hope, innovation, and a commitment to making advanced healthcare accessible to all. As this success story unfolds, it paves the way for a future where groundbreaking treatments redefine the landscape of cancer care, not just in India but around the world.
***Source: @IndianTechGuide and @CivilLearning1 on X Twitter
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