Costs of Breast Cancer: Let's Talk About This Without Fear

When you are diagnosed with breast cancer, one of the biggest questions that comes to mind is, "How much will this cost?" This is actually a big fear and worry for many people. Sometimes, fear of these costs leads some to even avoid treatment . But that is not a good thing to do at all. So today, let's talk about this openly, as if we were talking to a friend, to ease the burden on our minds.

What is your treatment plan like?

The first thing to understand is that there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for breast cancer. Your doctor will develop a treatment plan that is specific to you based on many factors, including the type of cancer you have, how far it has spread (stage), your age, and your overall health.

Usually, this treatment plan may include one or more of the following. Let's take a look at what these treatments are.

Even after treatment ends, you will need continued medical supervision.

• Meeting with the oncologist: You will need to meet every few months initially and at least once a year after 5 years.
• Mammograms: Must be done after surgery and at least once a year thereafter.
• Other tests: If you are taking some hormone treatments , you may need to have pelvic exams or bone density tests.

The truth about spending: What is the situation in Sri Lanka?

There is no point in talking about the costs in countries like America. Let's see how we deal with this situation in our country, Sri Lanka. In our country, you have two main options: government hospitals and private hospitals. The costs vary significantly between the two.

If you are receiving treatment at a government hospital...

This is the biggest relief for many people in our country.

• Free Treatment: Most major treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy , and radiation are provided free of charge by government hospitals. This is truly a priceless service.
• However, there are hidden costs: even if the treatment is free, you will have to bear other expenses.
• Travel expenses: Traveling from distant areas to major cancer hospitals like Colombo, Kandy, and Galle is a huge expense.
• Accommodation and food: There are costs for accommodation and food for someone to accompany the patient during treatment.
• Some medications and tests: Sometimes, you may have to pay for certain medications or tests that are not available at the hospital.
• Loss of income: You or your caregiver may not be able to work while receiving treatment, which can have a significant impact on your family's income.
• Special Diet : A nutritious diet is required during treatment. This also incurs an additional cost.

If you are receiving treatment at a private hospital...

When receiving treatment at a private hospital, you will have to bear the full cost of the services received.

• High cost: Surgery, medications, medical fees, hospital fees, test fees, etc. can all cost a lot of money . This cost can range from hundreds of thousands to millions of rupees, depending on the stage of the cancer and the complexity of the treatment.
• Insurance: If you have good health insurance, you may be able to cover some or all of this cost. However, you should be well aware of the exclusions and limitations of your insurance policy in advance.

Indirect costs (additional costs)

Cancer treatment is not limited to medications and radiation. There can be other expenses that go into getting your life back on track.

• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy may be necessary to treat swelling, pain, and stiffness in the hand after surgery.
• Mental Health Counseling: Living with cancer is a huge mental challenge. Counseling is very important to manage this stress.
• Wigs and special bras: Some people like to wear a wig to maintain their self-confidence after losing their hair due to chemotherapy. They may also need special bras (prosthetic bras) to wear after surgery.
• Nutritional advice: To stay healthy during and after treatment, it can be costly to seek advice from a dietitian.

How can I get help managing expenses?

Okay, now you realize that this is a difficult journey to face alone. But you are not alone. There are places where you can get help.

1. Talk to your doctor and hospital staff: Don't be shy about your financial difficulties and talk to your doctor. You can get help from the Social Service Unit at government hospitals. They can refer you to the necessary support services.

2. Patient Support Groups: There are several NGOs and support groups that help cancer patients in Sri Lanka. They help with things like medication, travel expenses, counseling, etc. You can find out more about these from the hospital's social services department.

3. Compare medicine prices: If you have other medications to buy outside, check prices at several pharmacies.

4. Clinical Trials: These can be a great opportunity to get the latest treatments at a low cost. However, you should definitely discuss with your doctor whether you can participate in this and whether it is right for you.

5. Ask for help from family and friends: Don't try to carry this burden alone. There are family and friends who are willing to help you. Not just financially, but ask for help with taking you to the hospital, finding work, etc.

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