Stomach Cancer Treatment In India

Medically known as gastric cancer, stomach cancer develops in the lining of the stomach. It’s a serious condition that could be fatal and requires prompt medical attention. Stomach cancer can appear as a lump or mass in the abdomen. It can be felt during physical examination and may cause discomfort or pain. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional if you notice any unusual lumps or changes in your abdomen.

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Thanks to the advancements in medical science, choices for stomach cancer treatment in India are diverse. Besides, patients travel to India for medical care. This is because stomach cancer treatment in India is affordable. The high caliber of care given by qualified medical experts is also another reason.

Stomach cancer treatment in India comprises a diverse range of approaches. This includes chemotherapy, targeted therapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. The stomach cancer treatment cost in India varies greatly depending on various factors. These factors include:

• the specific treatment plan,
• the healthcare facility chosen, and
• the stage of cancer.

For patients considering surgery in India, the cost may include several expenses. These expenses are related to preoperative evaluation. It includes the surgical procedure itself, post-operative care, and follow-up appointments.

Nevertheless, even with the associated costs, individuals who choose to treat stomach cancer in India can benefit from it. They get access to cutting-edge medical equipment and skilled medical personnel.

What is the stomach cancer survival rate in India?

The likelihood of survival for stomach cancer in India varies according to a number of circumstances. This may include:

• The patient’s general health,
• The stage at diagnosis, and
• The efficacy of stomach cancer treatment.

Based on current data, the 5-year overall survival rate for stomach cancer in India is about 29%. This means that 29 out of 100 patients with stomach cancer will live for at least five years after their diagnosis.

It’s crucial to remember that survival statistics might differ greatly depending on the cancer’s stage at diagnosis. For example, the survival rate for stomach cancer that is detected early (stage 1) is significantly greater. About 65% of patients manage to live for five years or more. To make well-informed decisions about prognoses and treatment options, patients must be aware of the survival rates for various stages of stomach cancer.

For instance, the chance of survival significantly decreases with increasingly advanced stomach cancer stages. In India, the 5-year stage 3 stomach cancer survival rate is about 20%, whereas the rate for stage 4 stomach cancer is about 4%. These figures highlight how crucial prompt evaluation and treatment are. By detecting stomach cancer at an earlier stage treatments can be more successful. Advanced diagnostic tools, routine screening programs, and increased knowledge of the disease’s signs and symptoms can all help to improve survival rates.

Causes of Stomach Cancer

Like many other types of cancers, stomach cancer develops as a result of a confluence of:
● environmental,
● lifestyle, and
● hereditary factors.

The precise cause of stomach cancer is not always known. There are a number of risk factors that have been found to raise an individual’s chance of developing the condition. Among them are:

• Helicobacter pylori infection: This bacteria is a significant contributor to the risk of stomach cancer. Over time, it may increase the chance of developing cancer by causing inflammation and harm to the stomach lining.
• Family history: People who have a genetic syndrome such as hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC) or who have a history of stomach cancer in their family may be more susceptible to the disease.
• Diet: Eating a lot of processed meats and foods that are smoked, pickled, or salted can raise your risk of stomach cancer. On the other hand, eating a lot of fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk.
• Gender and age: The risk of stomach cancer rises with age, and it is more common in older persons. In addition, men are more vulnerable than women.
• Alcohol and tobacco use: Excessive alcohol intake and cigarette smoking have been related to a higher risk of stomach cancer.
• Previous stomach surgery: There may be a higher risk of stomach cancer in people who have had specific stomach surgeries. These surgeries encompass partial gastrectomy for benign disorders like peptic ulcers.
• Pernicious anemia: Stomach cancer risk is linked to pernicious anemia. This is a condition marked by impaired absorption of vitamin B12 as a result of the autoimmune death of stomach cells.
• Occupational exposure: Working in environments where coal dust or asbestos is present increases the risk of stomach cancer.

Although stomach cancer may be predisposed to these variables, it’s crucial to remember that not everyone who has these risk factors will go on to get stomach cancer. In fact, some people may get stomach cancer even in the absence of any recognized risk factors. Furthermore, studies into the origins of stomach cancer are still being conducted. It’s possible that new risk factors will be found down the road.

What are the risk factors of stomach cancer?

Below are several factors that can be the reasons for stomach cancer. The risk factors emphasize how crucial modifications to lifestyle and preventative actions are in lowering the chance of stomach cancer. The risk of stomach cancer can be decreased by using preventative measures. Eating a balanced diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight can help. Furthermore, treating an H. pylori infection early can minimize the chance of developing problems like peptic ulcers and chronic gastritis, which in turn lowers the risk of stomach cancer.

• Age: People over 65 account for the majority of stomach cancer cases, which are more common in older persons. As one ages, there is an increased chance of stomach cancer, with older groups having the greatest incidence rates.
• Helicobacter pylori infection: One of the main risk factors for stomach cancer is infection with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). An H. pylori infection is frequently contracted as a child. It increases the risk of stomach cancer over time. It causes peptic ulcers, chronic gastritis, and stomach lining inflammation.
• Gender: Compared to women, men are more likely to acquire stomach cancer. Hormonal variations between men and women may influence an individual’s susceptibility to stomach cancer. Even if the causes for this gender gap are not entirely known.
• Diet: The development of stomach cancer is significantly influenced by dietary factors. The risk of stomach cancer is increased by
  ● consuming a diet high in pickled vegetables,
  ● smoked or processed meats,
  ● salt-preserved foods, and
  ● foods high in nitrites or nitrates.
  On the other hand, fruits, whole grains, and vegetables guard against oxidative stress and inflammation. They have been linked to a decreased risk of stomach cancer.
  
• Obesity: Being obese raises your risk of developing stomach cancer among other malignancies. It is believed that being overweight, especially in the abdominal region, can exacerbate insulin resistance and chronic inflammation. Both of these could accelerate the onset of malignant alterations in the stomach lining.

Types of stomach cancer

The three primary types of stomach cancer have
● unique traits,
● histological characteristics, and
● stomach cancer treatment modalities.

To choose the best course of action for their particular type and stage of cancer, patients with stomach cancer should have a comprehensive examination and staging performed.

Adenocarcinoma:

Making about 90–95% of all cases, adenocarcinoma is the most prevalent type of stomach cancer. It starts in the glandular cells that line the stomach’s innermost layer. While adenocarcinoma can develop anywhere in the stomach, it usually affects the lower half (the distal stomach). This particular type of cancer frequently arises over a long period of time. Precancerous alterations in the stomach lining, like intestinal metaplasia or persistent inflammation, can result in this type of cancer. Different subtypes of adenocarcinoma can manifest in different ways, such as
● intestinal,
● diffuse, and
● mixed kinds,
each having unique histological and clinical features.

Carcinoid Tumor:

The enterochromaffin-like (ECL) cells in the stomach lining are the source of these uncommon neuroendocrine tumors. These are known as carcinoid tumors of the stomach. Usually growing slowly, these tumors might release hormones like histamine, gastrin, or serotonin. These hormones can induce symptoms including diarrhea, flushing, or excessive secretion of gastric acid. A tiny proportion of stomach carcinoid tumors can be aggressive and spread to other organs. However, the majority are benign or low-grade malignant. Treatment options for gastric carcinoid tumors include
● surgical excision,
● endoscopic resection, and
● somatostatin analog therapy for metastatic disease.
The exact course of treatment for a given tumor depends on its size, histological grade, and location.

Lymphoma:

Lymphoma is an aggressive form of cancer that starts in the body’s immune system’s lymphatic system. Although lymph nodes are the usual site of lymphomas, they can also arise in extranodal areas, such as the stomach. Four to five per cent of stomach malignancies are caused by gastric lymphoma. Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma is the most prevalent subtype of non-Hodgkin gastric lymphomas. This makes up the majority of cases. In contrast to adenocarcinoma, gastric lymphoma usually appears as a constrained disease. It has a better prognosis – that is, provided it is identified early and treated effectively.

Different Stages of Stomach Cancer

Similar to many different types of cancer, stomach cancer develops and spreads throughout the body in stages. Healthcare professionals can assess the disease’s progression. Upon assessment, they create a personalized treatment plan for each patient. This aids in the stomach cancer staging system. Patients and their caregivers must be aware of all stages of stomach cancer. This will help them fully understand the prognosis and available treatments. Additionally, they would be aware of the possible consequences of the condition.

Stage 0 (Carcinoma in situ):

Cancer in situ, or stage 0, is an early stage of the disease. At this stage, the malignant cells are limited to the mucosa. Mucosa is the innermost layer of the stomach lining. They have not penetrated deeper into the stomach wall or spread to neighboring lymph nodes or distant organs. Stage 0 stomach cancer can be cured with limited treatments like
● surgical excision or
● endoscopic resection,
and is frequently found by accident during diagnostic techniques like biopsy or endoscopy.

Stage 1:

When stomach cancer is in stage I, the tumor has not yet progressed to neighboring lymph nodes or distant organs. It has grown past the mucosa into the submucosa or muscularis propria layer of the stomach wall. Surgery to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue is one possible treatment for stage 1 stomach cancer. It is regarded as an early-stage disease. To lower the chance of recurrence, further stomach cancer treatments may be advised. These treatments involve radiation therapy or chemotherapy, depending on the size and location of the tumor.

Stage 2:

Stage 2 stomach cancer is distinguished by the tumor’s continued invasion of the stomach wall’s deeper layers. This may also infiltrate neighboring lymph nodes. Stage 2 stomach cancer is classified into two subgroups, 2A and 2B. This is in accordance with the degree of tumor invasion and lymph node involvement. Surgery to remove the tumor and any surrounding lymph nodes is usually the first step in treating stage 2 stomach cancer. Adjuvant radiation therapy or chemotherapy is then used. It targets any cancer cells that may still be present and lower the chance of recurrence.

Stage 3:

Stage 3 stomach cancer is characterized by the tumor’s dissemination to neighboring lymph nodes and to the stomach wall, but not to distant organs. The third stage of stomach cancer can be further divided into subtypes (3A, 3B, and 3C). This is in accordance with the quantity and distribution of lymph nodes that are impacted. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery are frequently used in conjunction with stage 3 stomach cancer treatment. The goal is to remove tumors, eradicate lymph node cancer cells, and reduce recurrence risk.

Stage 4:

Stage 4 stomach cancer is metastatic or advanced-stage of the disease. It denotes the spread of the cancer to distant organs or tissues. It can be around the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity), the liver, or the lungs. Palliative care is the foundation of treatment at this last stage of stomach cancer. This aids in reducing symptoms, enhancing quality of life, and increasing survival time. Systemic chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy can help. Along with this supportive care techniques are required. These techniques involve pain relief and nutritional support. The life expectancy for stage 4 stomach cancer without treatment is generally poor, with most patients surviving only a few months to a year after diagnosis.

It is essential for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to be aware of all stages of stomach cancer. Being well aware can help them make well-informed decisions on prognosis, treatment options, and supportive care measures. Patients with stomach cancer must have routine follow-up care and monitoring. This will enable them to identify any signs of progression or recurrence. Additionally, this will allow them to modify treatment as necessary to maximize results and quality of life.

Signs & Symptoms of Stomach Cancer

Depending on the disease’s stage, where it is located in the stomach, and other variables, stomach cancer symptoms might fluctuate. Typical signs and symptoms of stomach cancer include:

• Persistent abdominal pain or discomfort: People who have stomach cancer may experience persistent abdominal pain or discomfort. This happens especially in the upper abdomen or around the navel. The pain could be severe, achy, or mild, and it could get worse with activity or after eating.
• Persistent heartburn or indigestion: Upper abdominal pain, particularly after eating, or persistent heartburn could be signs of stomach cancer. These symptoms could be misdiagnosed as gastritis or acid reflux, among other gastrointestinal disorders.
• Unintentional weight loss: Significant and inexplicable weight loss, which happens without a change in eating or activity routine, may indicate stomach cancer. Cancer-related changes in metabolism, eating difficulties, or loss of appetite can all lead to weight loss.
• Vomiting or nausea: Vomiting, feeling full soon after eating small meals, and nausea are all signs of stomach cancer. This is especially because the tumor grows and becomes obstructed to the stomach’s normal function.
• Appetite loss: People with stomach cancer may experience a decrease in appetite or early satiety. This is the sense of fullness after consuming a small amount of food. This can result in unintended weight loss and malnutrition.
• Dysphagia: Dysphagia is another name for difficulty swallowing. It can happen when a tumor blocks the food’s path from the esophagus to the stomach. There’s a chance that food will feel like it’s trapped in your chest or throat when you have dysphagia.
• Blood in the stool: Hemorrhaging in the gastrointestinal tract brought on by stomach cancer may result in blood in the stool. Blood in the stool can manifest as dark, tarry stools (melena) or bright red blood. It can also cause symptoms like weakness, exhaustion, and stomach pain.
• Exhaustion and fatigue: Prolonged bleeding from the stomach tumor may result in anemia (low red blood cell count). This can produce persistent tiredness or lethargy.
• Jaundice: Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and eyes that can occasionally result from stomach cancer obstructing the bile duct. The signs of jaundice can include pale feces, dark urine, itching, and stomach ache.
• Fluid buildup (ascites) or swelling: Ascites denotes fluid accumulation in the belly. It can result from advanced stomach cancer and cause discomfort, bloating, and edema. Breathing difficulties and weight increase can also be associated with ascites.

It’s crucial to keep in mind that having one or more of these symptoms does not always indicate that someone has stomach cancer. Instead, these symptoms can be brought on by a number of different medical disorders. However, it’s crucial to see a healthcare provider for an assessment and the necessary testing. It will enable you to identify the underlying reason for your intensified or persistent symptoms. Improved stomach cancer treatment and prognoses can result from early identification and diagnosis.

Diagnosis of stomach cancer

A physical examination, a review of medical history, and a number of diagnostic procedures are often used to diagnose stomach cancer. The following are some typical techniques for diagnosing stomach cancer:

• Endoscopy: This procedure involves inserting an endoscope. An endoscope is a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light at its tip. It is inserted through the mouth and into the stomach, upper duodenum, and esophagus. An endoscopy allows the physician to see inside the stomach directly. The physician then obtains tissue samples (biopsies) from any questionable locations for microscopic evaluation. To determine the degree of tumor involvement, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) may also be carried out during endoscopy. It creates images of the digestive system and surrounding organs using sound waves.
• Biopsy: A biopsy is the process of taking a tiny amount of stomach lining tissue to be examined under a microscope. It helps check for malignant cells. Biopsy samples can be extracted with an endoscope. It is less frequently obtained via a surgical operation known as an exploratory laparotomy or laparoscopy. The results of the biopsy can be used to confirm the existence of stomach cancer. It also helps identify the kind and grade of the disease and direct the course of treatment.
• Computed tomography (CT or CAT) scan: A CT scan produces finely detailed cross-sectional images of the inside organs and tissues of the body, including the stomach. It does this by utilizing X-rays and computer technology. CT scans can assist in identifying the existence of a tumor. It also helps in locating it and assessing if the cancer has spread to adjacent lymph nodes or other organs. In addition, CT scans can be used to track a patient’s response to treatment and look for indications of a cancer recurrence.
• Positron emission tomography (PET) scan: A PET scan is a nuclear medicine imaging procedure that shows areas of the body with elevated metabolic activity. This involves malignant tumors, by injecting a radioactive tracer into the circulation. PET/CT scans are frequently used in tandem with CT scans (PET-CT scan). It helps in yielding more precise information regarding the location and size of malignant tumors. PET-CT scans are useful in identifying the stage of stomach cancer. It also helps evaluate metastasis – the disease’s spread to distant organs – and track the effectiveness of treatment.

Importance of These Diagnostic Procedures

These diagnostic procedures are essential for accurately identifying and staging stomach cancer. It also helps in directing treatment choices and tracking the efficacy of those choices over time. Better treatment outcomes and an improved prognosis for patients can result from early identification of stomach cancer. Screening tests or investigation of symptoms greatly help. When someone exhibits symptoms that could indicate stomach cancer, they should see a doctor immediately for a thorough evaluation. If necessary, it is important to go for appropriate diagnostic testing.

Stomach Cancer Treatment Success in India

Stomach cancer treatment in India usually entails a multidisciplinary approach. The goal is to provide individualized care based on the unique circumstances of each patient. One or more of the following modalities may be incorporated into the treatment plan. In addition to these treatment modalities, supportive care measures are also necessary. Nutritional support, pain management, and psychological support play a crucial role. They help manage the physical and emotional effects of stomach cancer and its treatment. Patients with stomach cancer in India have access to

● state-of-the-art medical facilities,
● advanced treatment technologies, and
● experienced healthcare professionals dedicated to delivering comprehensive, compassionate care throughout the treatment journey.

Stomach cancer surgery:

Surgery is frequently the first line of treatment for locally advanced stomach cancer (stages 0 to III). Depending on the size and location of the tumor, surgery may take place. It involves removing all or part of the stomach (total gastrectomy or subtotal or partial gastrectomy). To lower the chance of a cancer return, lymph nodes close to the stomach may also be removed (lymphadenectomy). To reduce surgical trauma and speed up recovery, advanced surgical procedures like
● robotic-assisted surgery or
● minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery may be employed.

Radiation Therapy:

To eradicate cancer cells or reduce tumor size, radiation therapy is employed. This therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation. Before or after surgery, external beam radiation therapy may be used. This is done to target the stomach tumor and adjacent lymph nodes to improve local control of the disease. External beam radiation therapy is administered from a machine outside the body. Radiation treatment can also be used to treat individuals with advanced stomach cancer. It helps to ease symptoms like discomfort or bleeding.

Chemotherapy:

Chemotherapy uses strong anti-cancer medications. These medications either kill or delay the growth of cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be used as the main treatment for advanced or metastatic stomach cancer. It can also be used as an adjuvant treatment to kill any cancer cells that remain after surgery. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy shrinks the tumor and makes it easier to remove. Combinations of medications such as
● fluorouracil (5-FU),
● cisplatin,
● oxaliplatin,
● docetaxel, and others
may be used in chemotherapy regimens for stomach cancer.

Immunotherapy:

Immunotherapy leverages the immune system to target and identify cancerous cells in the body. Immune checkpoint inhibitors, such
● nivolumab (Opdivo) and
● pembrolizumab (Keytruda),
can be used to treat advanced stomach cancer that has not responded to previous therapies. These medications function by obstructing immune response-inhibiting proteins. They improve the immune system’s ability to identify and combat cancer cells.

Targeted Therapies:

Targeted treatments target molecular anomalies or signaling pathways. These pathways are involved in cancer development and spread. For stomach cancer that over expresses the HER2 protein and is HER2-positive, treatment includes:
● chemotherapy and
● targeted therapies like trastuzumab (Herceptin).
● Additionally, other targeted medications such as
● apatinib (Hengrui) and
● ramucirumab (Cyramza)
may benefit certain cases of advanced stomach cancer.

Treatment Approaches Based on Stages of Stomach Cancer

Here’s a breakdown of treatment approaches for stomach cancer based on the different stages:

Stage 0 Stomach Cancer Treatment in India:

Endoscopic resection, a minimally invasive technique to remove malignant tissue from the inner lining of the stomach, is the standard of care for stomach cancer in stage 0. This is also referred to as carcinoma in situ. Depending on the size and location of the tumor, endoscopic resection may involve methods like
● endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) or
● endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR).

Patients with stage 0 stomach cancer may have routine follow-up exams. This includes endoscopy and imaging studies. Endoscopic resection helps in watching for any indications of disease progression or recurrence. If there is evidence of recurring or persistent disease, further therapy may be advised.

Stage 1 Stomach Cancer Treatment in India:

Stage 1 stomach cancer is typically treated with surgery to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue. Depending on the size and location of the tumor, surgical options may include

● partial or total gastrectomy (removal of part or all of the stomach) and
● lymphadenectomy (removal of nearby lymph nodes).

Minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery may be used when appropriate. After surgery, some patients with stage 1 stomach cancer may receive adjuvant chemotherapy. This helps kill any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.

Adjuvant chemotherapy may be recommended based on factors such as
● the tumor’s size,
● location, and
● histological features.

Stage 2 Stomach Cancer Treatment in India:

Treatment for stage 2 stomach cancer typically involves surgery. The treatment is aimed at the removal of the tumor, nearby lymph nodes, and surrounding tissue. Surgical options may include partial or total gastrectomy with lymphadenectomy. Minimally invasive surgical techniques may be used when feasible. After surgery, patients with stage 2 stomach cancer may receive adjuvant chemotherapy. This helps reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. Adjuvant chemotherapy regimens may include combinations of drugs such as
● fluorouracil (5-FU),
● cisplatin, or
● oxaliplatin.

Stage 3 Stomach Cancer Treatment in India:

Treatment for stage 3 stomach cancer often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy. Patients may undergo surgery to remove the tumor and nearby lymph nodes. This is followed by adjuvant chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. This targets any remaining cancer cells and reduces the risk of recurrence. Physicians give neoadjuvant chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy before surgery. This helps in shrinking the tumor and makes it easier to remove. This approach may help improve the likelihood of complete tumor resection and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.

Stage 4 Stomach Cancer Treatment in India:

Treatment for stage 4 stomach cancer focuses on palliative care to relieve symptoms. In turn, it improves quality of life and ensures prolonged survival. Patients may receive
● systemic chemotherapy,
● targeted therapy,
● immunotherapy, or
● a combination of these treatments.
● This combination helps shrink tumors, slow disease progression, and alleviate symptoms such as
● pain,
● nausea, and
● difficulty eating.

Which country is best for Stomach cancer treatment?

India is one of the top countries that provide advanced stomach cancer treatment. With

● world-class medical facilities,
● advanced treatment options,
● experienced healthcare professionals, and
● affordable healthcare services,

India provides comprehensive and personalized treatment approaches. These approaches are tailored to each patient’s specific needs.

India is one of the top countries that provide advanced stomach cancer treatment. With

• world-class medical facilities,
• advanced treatment options,
• experienced healthcare professionals, and
• affordable healthcare services,

India provides comprehensive and personalized treatment approaches. These approaches are tailored to each patient’s specific needs.

Tips for selecting the finest Stomach cancer treatment hospital in India

When selecting the finest stomach cancer treatment hospital in India, consider factors such as
● the hospital’s reputation for oncology expertise,
● the experience and qualifications of its medical professionals,
● the availability of advanced treatment technologies and facilities, and
● patient reviews and testimonials.

Additionally, ensure that the hospital offers comprehensive multidisciplinary care. Personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific condition and needs are imperative.

Choose the Best Oncologist for your Stomach cancer treatment in India

To choose the best oncologist for stomach cancer treatment in India, consider factors such as
● the oncologist’s experience and expertise in treating stomach cancer,
● their credentials and qualifications,
● their track record of successful outcomes,
● patient reviews and testimonials, and
● their ability to provide compassionate, personalized care.

Additionally, seek recommendations from trusted sources such as other healthcare professionals or patient support groups.

Stomach cancer treatment cost in India

The cost of stomach cancer treatment in India can vary depending on several factors. These factors include
● the stage of cancer,
● the specific treatment modalities required,
● the hospital or healthcare facility chosen, and
● any additional services or medications needed.

Generally, the cost of stomach cancer treatment in India may include several expenses. These expenses encompass

• diagnostic tests,
• surgery
• chemotherapy
• radiation therapy
• targeted therapy
• hospitalization
• doctor’s fees, and
• follow-up care.

Treatment costs in India are often more affordable compared to Western countries. However, it’s essential to obtain detailed cost estimates. Clarify any potential expenses with the chosen healthcare provider or hospital before proceeding with treatment. Additionally, patients may explore other options. These options comprise

• health insurance coverage or
• financial assistance programs
• to help manage the cost of stomach cancer treatment in India.