Liver Cancer Treatment Cost in Chennai

  • Starting From: USD 5040-24600

  • Icon

    Procedure Type: Medical Management

  • Icon

    Hospitalization Days: - Days

  • Icon

    Procedure Duration: - Hrs

The average cost of liver cancer treatment in Chennai typically ranges from INR 4,20,000 to INR 20,50,000 (approximately USD 5,040 to USD 24,600). Chennai's reputation as India's healthcare capital stems from its unique combination of medical excellence, cultural heritage, and cost-effectiveness. The city's established medical infrastructure, supported by decades of experience in treating international patients, ensures comprehensive oncological care at highly competitive rates. Chennai's strategic position as a medical tourism hub, coupled with its strong network of specialty hospitals and experienced medical professionals, makes it an ideal destination for patients seeking world-class liver cancer treatment without compromising on quality or affordability.

Get Your Liver Cancer Treatment Cost in Chennai

Liver Cancer Treatment Cost in Chennai Vs. Other Indian Cities

Chennai's established position as a medical tourism destination offers excellent value for money while maintaining internationally recognized standards of care. The city's mature healthcare ecosystem provides cost advantages without compromising quality.

City

Minimum Cost (INR)

Maximum Cost (INR)

Approx. USD Range

Chennai

INR 4,20,000

INR 20,50,000

USD 5,040 – 24,600

Gurgaon

INR 4,50,000

INR 22,00,000

USD 5,400 – 26,400

Mumbai

INR 4,50,000

INR 22,50,000

USD 5,400 – 27,000

Bangalore

INR 4,20,000

INR 20,50,000

USD 5,040 – 24,600

Delhi

INR 4,00,000

INR 20,00,000

USD 4,800 – 24,000

Hyderabad

INR 4,00,000

INR 20,00,000

USD 4,800 – 24,000

Why Choose Chennai for Liver Cancer Treatment?

Chennai stands out as India's most established medical tourism destination, earning the title "Healthcare Capital of India" through decades of excellence in patient care. The city's mature medical ecosystem, built over generations, offers exceptional value through established protocols, experienced medical teams, and streamlined processes that reduce overall treatment costs while maintaining superior outcomes.

Unlike newer medical hubs, Chennai benefits from a deep-rooted tradition in medicine, combined with modern innovations. The city's cultural emphasis on healing, reflected in its ancient Siddha medicine heritage, has evolved into a comprehensive approach to patient care. Chennai's excellent connectivity, provided by Chennai International Airport, combined with its rich Tamil cultural heritage and naturally hospitable environment, creates an ideal setting for patients requiring extended treatment and recovery periods.

What is Liver Cancer Treatment?

Liver cancer treatment in Chennai leverages the city's extensive experience in oncological care and time-tested treatment protocols. The comprehensive approach is designed to eliminate cancer cells, control disease progression, and enhance patient quality of life. Chennai's medical institutions are renowned for their systematic, culturally sensitive, patient-centered approach to care, often incorporating holistic wellness principles with cutting-edge medical technologies.

Treatment typically involves a carefully coordinated combination of surgical interventions, localized therapies, and systemic treatments. Chennai's unique strength lies in its integrative approach to cancer care, where traditional Indian emphasis on patient comfort and family involvement enhances the effectiveness of modern medical treatments.

Who is a Candidate for Liver Cancer Treatment?

Patients diagnosed with liver cancer in Chennai benefit from comprehensive evaluations by multidisciplinary teams with extensive experience in complex oncological cases. The city's collaborative medical culture, influenced by Tamil traditions of collective decision-making, ensures thorough assessment and personalized treatment planning with strong family involvement.

Key evaluation factors include:

  • Cancer stage and histological characteristics
  • Tumor size, number, and anatomical location
  • Overall liver function and nutritional status
  • Patient's general medical condition and family support system
  • Cultural preferences and treatment accessibility requirements

Understanding the Treatments and Their Costs

Chennai's established medical infrastructure offers transparent and competitive pricing for comprehensive liver cancer treatment options, backed by decades of proven outcomes.

Know Your Treatment Cost

Get a cost estimate based on your condition and hospital preferences.

Cost of Different Liver Cancer Treatments in Chennai

Let's break down the costs for different types of liver cancer treatments available in Chennai, India's healthcare capital.

Surgery for Liver Cancer

Surgery is often the most effective treatment for liver cancer when the tumor can be safely removed. The liver cancer surgery price in Chennai depends on the complexity of the procedure and your specific condition.

Liver Resection (Partial Hepatectomy): This procedure involves removing the cancerous part of your liver while preserving healthy tissue. Thanks to the liver's remarkable ability to regenerate, you can live normally with a portion of your liver removed. The cost of liver cancer surgery in Chennai, using resection, typically ranges from INR 4,80,000 to INR 9,50,000 (approximately USD 5,760 to USD 11,400).

Liver Transplant: For patients with early-stage cancer and underlying liver disease, a liver transplant may be the best option. This complex procedure replaces your entire diseased liver with a healthy one from a donor. The cost for liver transplant surgery ranges from INR 18,50,000 to INR 30,00,000 (approximately USD 22,200 to USD 36,000), benefiting from Tamil Nadu's progressive organ donation policies.

Localized Treatments for Liver Cancer

These minimally invasive procedures target cancer cells directly in your liver without major surgery, making them excellent options for patients who aren't candidates for traditional surgery.

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) and Microwave Ablation (MWA): These heat-based treatments use precise energy to destroy cancer cells. The procedures are performed through small incisions, which allows for a faster recovery. Each session in Chennai costs between INR 1,40,000 and INR 2,90,000 (approximately USD 1,680 to USD 3,480).

Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE): This innovative treatment delivers chemotherapy drugs directly to the tumor through the blood vessels that supply it, while also blocking the blood supply to starve the cancer. Each TACE procedure ranges from INR 95,000 to INR 1,90,000 (approximately USD 1,140 to USD 2,280).

Chemotherapy for Liver Cancer

Chemotherapy uses powerful medications to attack cancer cells throughout your body. It's often used when cancer has spread beyond the liver or as additional treatment after surgery to prevent recurrence.

A single chemotherapy cycle in Chennai costs between INR 28,000 and INR 1,40,000 (approximately USD 336 to USD 1,680). Most patients require multiple cycles over several months, and Chennai's established day-care facilities help reduce overall treatment costs by eliminating the need for overnight stays.

Targeted Therapy for Liver Cancer

Targeted therapy represents a more precise approach to cancer treatment, focusing on specific molecular pathways that cancer cells use to grow and spread. These treatments often cause fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.

Monthly costs for targeted therapy in Chennai range from INR 55,000 to INR 2,30,000 (approximately USD 660 to USD 2,760). The exact price depends on which specific targeted drug your oncologist prescribes based on your cancer's genetic profile.

Immunotherapy for Liver Cancer

Immunotherapy is a revolutionary treatment approach that empowers your own immune system to recognize and fight cancer cells more effectively. It's particularly promising for advanced cases of liver cancer.

This cutting-edge treatment costs between INR 1,40,000 to INR 3,80,000 (approximately USD 1,680 to USD 4,560) per cycle. Chennai's experienced medical teams provide comprehensive support and culturally sensitive care throughout the immunotherapy process.

Radiation Therapy for Liver Cancer

While less commonly used for liver cancer due to the organ's sensitivity, specialized radiation techniques like stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) can be effective for specific cases.

A complete course of specialized radiation therapy in Chennai ranges from INR 2,20,000 to INR 4,50,000 (approximately USD 2,640 to USD 5,400), depending on the number of sessions required and the specific technology used.

Liver Cancer Treatment Cost by Stages in Chennai

Your cancer stage is one of the most significant factors affecting your treatment cost, as it determines how extensive and lengthy your treatment will be.

Cancer Stage

Treatment Approach

Estimated Cost Range (INR)

Estimated Cost Range (USD)

Stage I

Surgery (resection/ablation) + monitoring

INR 4,20,000 – INR 6,50,000

USD 5,040 – USD 7,800

Stage II

Surgery + localized treatments (TACE/RFA)

INR 5,50,000 – INR 9,50,000

USD 6,600 – USD 11,400

Stage III

Surgery/localized treatments + systemic therapy (chemo/targeted therapy)

INR 7,50,000 – INR 14,00,000

USD 9,000 – USD 16,800

Stage IV

Palliative surgery + extensive systemic therapies (chemo/targeted/immunotherapy)

INR 11,00,000 – INR 20,50,000+

USD 13,200 – USD 24,600+

Note: These are approximate costs and may vary depending on your response to treatment, specific drug regimens, and the hospital you choose. Chennai's mature healthcare infrastructure and established treatment protocols often offer cost advantages while maintaining excellent clinical outcomes across all stages of cancer.

Liver Cancer Treatment Packages in Chennai

Chennai's hospitals pioneered comprehensive treatment packages in India, leveraging the city's extensive experience in medical tourism. These meticulously designed packages provide transparency in the overall liver cancer treatment price in Chennai, often including cultural liaison services, traditional Tamil vegetarian meal options, family accommodation assistance, and comprehensive follow-up care that reflects Chennai's patient-centric philosophy and understanding of healing as a community process.

Know Your Treatment Cost

Get a cost estimate based on your condition and hospital preferences.

Factors Affecting the Cost

Several unique factors influence liver cancer treatment pricing in Chennai:

  • Cancer Stage and Cultural Considerations: Treatment complexity is enhanced by Chennai's holistic approach, which may include additional supportive care elements that contribute to overall healing.
  • Diagnostic Excellence: Chennai's comprehensive diagnostic protocols, which include advanced molecular testing and traditional assessment methods, significantly contribute to the accurate diagnosis of liver cancer in Chennai.
  • Institutional Heritage: The city's prestigious medical institutions, some with histories spanning over a century, command respect for their established expertise and proven outcomes.
  • Cultural Integration Services: Additional services for diverse patient populations, including regional language support, dietary accommodations, and family counseling, influence comprehensive care costs.

Liver Cancer Treatment Cost in Top Hospitals in Chennai

Chennai boasts several world-class hospitals specializing in cancer care, earning it a reputation as India's healthcare capital. Here's what you can expect to pay at some of the city's leading institutions.

Liver Cancer Treatment Cost in Cancer Institute (WIA), Chennai

The liver cancer treatment cost at Cancer Institute (WIA) is known to be among the most reasonable, given its reputation as one of India's oldest and most respected cancer centers. The hospital is renowned for its innovative and affordable approaches to cancer care.

  • Liver Resection Surgery: INR 4,00,000 – INR 7,50,000 (USD 4,800 – USD 9,000)
  • TACE Procedure: INR 80,000 – INR 1,60,000 (USD 960 – USD 1,920)
  • Chemotherapy (full course): INR 2,20,000 – INR 4,50,000 (USD 2,640 – USD 5,400)
  • Radiofrequency Ablation: INR 1,20,000 – INR 2,50,000 (USD 1,440 – USD 3,000)
  • Targeted Therapy (monthly): INR 45,000 – INR 1,80,000 (USD 540 – USD 2,160)

Cancer Institute (WIA) is particularly known for pioneering cost-effective treatment protocols, making it a great choice for affordable liver cancer treatment in Chennai.

Liver Cancer Treatment Cost in Apollo Hospital, Chennai

The liver cancer treatment cost at Apollo Hospital Chennai reflects its state-of-the-art technology and comprehensive multidisciplinary care approach.

  • Liver Resection Surgery: INR 5,50,000 – INR 10,50,000 (USD 6,600 – USD 12,600)
  • Liver Transplant: INR 20,00,000 – INR 32,00,000 (USD 24,000 – USD 38,400)
  • Chemotherapy (per session): INR 85,000 – INR 1,35,000 (USD 1,020 – USD 1,620)
  • Targeted Therapy (monthly): INR 75,000 – INR 2,40,000 (USD 900 – USD 2,880)
  • Immunotherapy (per cycle): INR 1,60,000 – INR 4,00,000 (USD 1,920 – USD 4,800)

Liver Cancer Treatment Cost in Fortis Malar Hospital, Chennai

The liver cancer treatment cost at Fortis Malar Hospital is competitive, backed by the hospital's strong reputation for surgical oncology and comprehensive cancer care.

  • Liver Resection Surgery: INR 4,80,000 – INR 9,20,000 (USD 5,760 – USD 11,040)
  • Liver Transplant: INR 18,50,000 – INR 30,00,000 (USD 22,200 – USD 36,000)
  • Chemotherapy (per cycle): INR 25,000 – INR 67,000 (USD 300 – USD 800)
  • TACE Procedure: INR 85,000 – INR 1,70,000 (USD 1,020 – USD 2,040)
  • Advanced Therapies: INR 8,00,000 – INR 16,00,000 (USD 9,600 – USD 19,200)

Liver Cancer Treatment Cost in MIOT International, Chennai

The liver cancer treatment cost at MIOT International is reasonable considering the quality of care provided. This hospital is known for its advanced surgical capabilities and comprehensive cancer care programs.

  • Liver Cancer Treatment (Overall): INR 4,20,000 – INR 8,50,000 (USD 5,040 – USD 10,200)
  • Liver Resection Surgery: INR 4,60,000 – INR 8,80,000 (USD 5,520 – USD 10,560)
  • Chemotherapy (per cycle): INR 35,000 – INR 1,20,000 (USD 420 – USD 1,440)
  • Radiation Therapy (full course): INR 2,00,000 – INR 4,20,000 (USD 2,400 – USD 5,040)
  • Comprehensive Treatment Package: Contact the hospital for personalized estimates

Liver Cancer Treatment Cost in Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Centre, Chennai

The liver cancer treatment cost at Dr. Rela Institute reflects its specialized focus on liver diseases and transplantation, offering some of India's most advanced hepatological care.

  • Liver Resection Surgery: INR 5,20,000 – INR 10,00,000 (USD 6,240 – USD 12,000)
  • Liver Transplant: INR 22,00,000 – INR 35,00,000 (USD 26,400 – USD 42,000)
  • Chemotherapy (per cycle): INR 28,000 – INR 1,40,000 (USD 336 – USD 1,680)
  • Advanced Therapies: INR 9,50,000 – INR 18,50,000 (USD 11,400 – USD 22,200)
  • Immunotherapy (per cycle): INR 1,50,000 – INR 4,20,000 (USD 1,800 – USD 5,040)

Liver Cancer Treatment Cost in Global Health City, Chennai

The liver cancer treatment cost at Global Health City is competitive, with the hospital offering comprehensive cancer care through experienced oncologists and state-of-the-art facilities.

  • Liver Resection Surgery: INR 4,40,000 – INR 8,60,000 (USD 5,280 – USD 10,320)
  • Chemotherapy (per cycle): INR 27,000 – INR 1,15,000 (USD 324 – USD 1,380)
  • TACE Procedure: INR 90,000 – INR 1,80,000 (USD 1,080 – USD 2,160)
  • Targeted Therapy (monthly): INR 60,000 – INR 2,30,000 (USD 720 – USD 2,760)
  • Radiation Therapy (full course): INR 1,90,000 – INR 4,00,000 (USD 2,280 – USD 4,800)

Liver Cancer Treatment Cost in Sri Ramachandra Medical Centre, Chennai

The liver cancer treatment cost at Sri Ramachandra Medical Centre is competitively positioned, reflecting the centre's established reputation in comprehensive cancer care and medical education.

  • Liver Resection Surgery: INR 4,20,000 – INR 8,00,000 (USD 5,040 – USD 9,600)
  • Liver Transplant: INR 19,00,000 – INR 31,00,000 (USD 22,800 – USD 37,200)
  • Chemotherapy (full course): INR 2,80,000 – INR 5,40,000 (USD 3,360 – USD 6,480)
  • Advanced Therapies: INR 8,50,000 – INR 17,00,000 (USD 10,200 – USD 20,400)
  • Comprehensive Care Packages: Available with cultural accommodation services

Comparing Liver Cancer Treatment Costs Between Top Hospitals in Chennai

Here's a quick comparison to help you understand the overall liver cancer treatment cost in Chennai at leading hospitals:

Hospital

Overall Treatment Cost (INR)

Overall Treatment Cost (USD)

Cancer Institute (WIA)

INR 2,20,000 – INR 12,00,000+

USD 2,640 – USD 14,400+

Global Health City

INR 4,40,000 – INR 15,00,000+

USD 5,280 – USD 18,000+

MIOT International

INR 4,20,000 – INR 16,00,000+

USD 5,040 – USD 19,200+

Sri Ramachandra Medical Centre

INR 4,20,000 – INR 17,00,000+

USD 5,040 – USD 20,400+

Fortis Malar Hospital

INR 4,80,000 – INR 18,50,000+

USD 5,760 – USD 22,200+

Apollo Hospital

INR 5,50,000 – INR 20,00,000+

USD 6,600 – USD 24,000+

Dr. Rela Institute and Medical Centre

INR 5,20,000 – INR 20,50,000+

USD 6,240 – USD 24,600+

Note: These costs represent the complete treatment course and can vary significantly based on your specific condition, cancer stage, chosen hospital, doctor's expertise, and required treatments. Chennai's established healthcare infrastructure and decades of experience in medical tourism often provide excellent value for comprehensive liver cancer care, while maintaining internationally recognized quality standards.

Additional Expenses to Consider

Besides the main treatment costs, you should budget for these additional expenses:

  • Pre-admission tests and consultations (blood tests, CT/MRI/PET scans, liver biopsies, tumor marker assessments)
  • Post-treatment medications and follow-up visits (regular oncology consultations, surveillance imaging, and monitoring blood work)
  • Travel and accommodation for you and your family (hotel stays near Chennai's medical districts, local transportation, airport transfers)
  • Supportive care medications (pain management, anti-nausea drugs, nutritional supplements, infection prevention medicines)
  • Cultural and dietary support services (traditional Tamil meal arrangements, interpreter services, family counseling support)

Post-Treatment Care Cost of Liver Cancer in Chennai

The post-treatment care cost of liver cancer in Chennai benefits from the city's comprehensive, culturally integrated support infrastructure:

  • Established Follow-up Networks: Well-coordinated systems involving both medical specialists and community health workers
  • Comprehensive Diagnostic Services: Advanced imaging facilities with cultural comfort measures for patient convenience
  • Traditional Medicine Support: Integration of Ayurvedic and Siddha medicine principles for holistic recovery
  • Family-Centered Care: Support systems that accommodate Tamil traditions of extended family involvement in healing
  • Cultural Dietary Programs: Specialized nutrition counseling incorporating traditional Tamil dietary wisdom with modern oncological nutrition science

Liver Cancer Treatment Cost in Chennai for International Patients

The cost of liver cancer treatment in Chennai for international patients is highly competitive compared to Western countries, where similar treatments can cost three to five times more. Chennai's top hospitals offer special packages for international patients that often include:

  • Airport pickup and drop-off services
  • Visa assistance and documentation support
  • Language translators and cultural interpreters
  • Dedicated international patient coordinators
  • Assistance with accommodation arrangements near medical districts
  • Post-treatment follow-up via telemedicine
  • Traditional Tamil dietary accommodations and cultural liaison services
  • Family support services and counseling

Most hospitals in Chennai have dedicated international patient departments that handle everything from medical records review to billing, making your treatment journey smooth and hassle-free. As India's original medical tourism destination, Chennai has over three decades of experience serving international patients.

Insurance Coverage and Financing

Most major Indian health insurance providers cover liver cancer treatment, including specialized cancer insurance policies offering lump-sum payouts upon diagnosis. Critical illness plans typically have 90-day waiting periods. Chennai hospitals offer EMI financing, medical loans, and government schemes like CMCHIS and PMJAY, making treatment more accessible and affordable.

Tips to Find Affordable Liver Cancer Treatment in Chennai

Choose a NABH-accredited hospital: These hospitals have standardized, transparent pricing and established quality protocols that prevent unnecessary costs.

Ask about package deals: Hospitals like Apollo, Fortis Malar, and MIOT International offer comprehensive packages that bundle surgery, hospital stay, and initial treatments at discounted prices.

Get multiple opinions: Consulting with different oncologists and hospitals helps you compare costs without compromising on quality - Chennai's competitive medical landscape offers many excellent options.

Consider Cancer Institute (WIA): Known for innovative, low-cost liver cancer treatment options in Chennai, this institution offers subsidized care with excellent outcomes at significantly reduced costs.

Ask about generic medications: Generic versions of chemotherapy and targeted therapy drugs can significantly reduce treatment costs while maintaining effectiveness.

Utilize government schemes: Tamil Nadu offers various healthcare schemes, such as CMCHIS and PMJAY, that can substantially reduce treatment expenses for eligible patients.

Seek financial counseling: Many hospitals in Chennai have dedicated financial counselors who can help you understand costs, explore payment options, and identify available financial assistance programs.

Consider participating in clinical trials: Several Chennai hospitals are involved in international research studies that may provide access to cutting-edge treatments at reduced costs for eligible patients.

Why Choose MediJourney for Liver Cancer Treatment?

MediJourney has established itself as a trusted partner in international healthcare, offering patients comprehensive support throughout their liver cancer treatment journey in Chennai's renowned medical ecosystem:

Personalized Care Coordination – Our dedicated team leverages Chennai's mature healthcare infrastructure and cultural sensitivity to manage every aspect of your medical journey, from initial consultation scheduling with the city's most experienced oncologists to treatment planning and culturally appropriate post-care follow-up.

Access to Tamil Nadu's Top Specialists – We connect you with Chennai's most experienced hepatologists and surgical oncologists, carefully selecting experts from premier institutions with decades of specialization in liver cancer treatment and a deep understanding of diverse patient needs.

Transparent Pricing with Cultural Value – Receive detailed cost estimates upfront, with no hidden fees. Take advantage of Chennai's competitive healthcare pricing, established through years of medical tourism excellence, while ensuring that cultural accommodation services are clearly outlined.

End-to-End Cultural Support – From visa assistance and travel arrangements to accommodation in Chennai's medical districts with Tamil hospitality, local transportation, and cultural orientation services, we ensure your complete comfort in India's healthcare capital.

Quality Assurance with Heritage – We partner exclusively with JCI-accredited and internationally recognized hospitals in Chennai that have established their reputation through decades of excellence, ensuring treatment at institutions with proven track records and cultural competency.

Multilingual Excellence – Our support team offers comprehensive communication assistance in Tamil, English, Telugu, and other regional languages, ensuring seamless interaction with Chennai's diverse and highly qualified medical teams.

FAQs on Liver Cancer Treatment Cost in Chennai

Q1. What is the average cost of liver cancer treatment in Chennai?
Answer: The average cost ranges between INR 4,20,000 to INR 20,50,000 (USD 5,040 to USD 24,600), making Chennai one of India's most cost-effective destinations for high-quality liver cancer care with decades of proven success rates.

Q2. How much does liver cancer surgery cost in Chennai?
Answer: Liver resection costs range from INR 4,80,000 to INR 9,50,000 (USD 5,760 to USD 11,400), while liver transplants range from INR 18,50,000 to INR 30,00,000 (USD 22,200 to USD 36,000). Chennai's experienced surgical teams, many of whom have received international training, consistently achieve excellent outcomes.

Q3. Are there comprehensive cultural support services available in Chennai?
Answer: Yes, Chennai hospitals offer extensive cultural accommodation services, including Tamil language support, traditional dietary options, family accommodation assistance, and cultural liaison services, making it ideal for diverse patient populations.

Q4. What makes Chennai unique for liver cancer treatment?
Answer: Chennai combines decades of oncological expertise with India's most mature medical tourism infrastructure, cultural sensitivity, cost-effective pricing, and a holistic approach to healing that integrates modern medicine with traditional wellness principles.

Q5. What should I budget for post-treatment care in Chennai?
Answer: Post-treatment care costs benefit from Chennai's established follow-up systems, family-centered care approaches, and integration of traditional healing support, with costs generally more affordable due to the city's comprehensive healthcare infrastructure.

Q6. How do systemic therapy costs compare in Chennai?
Answer: Chemotherapy costs range from INR 28,000 to INR 1,40,000 (USD 336 to USD 1,680) per cycle, targeted therapy from INR 55,000 to INR 2,30,000 (USD 660 to USD 2,760) monthly, and immunotherapy from INR 1,40,000 to INR 3,80,000 (USD 1,680 to USD 4,560) per cycle, all supported by culturally competent medical teams.

Q7. Is Chennai suitable for international patients seeking liver cancer treatment?
Answer: Absolutely. Chennai is India's premier medical tourism destination, boasting over three decades of experience in treating international patients. It offers unmatched cultural hospitality, comprehensive language support, proven treatment protocols, and competitive costs in a patient-friendly environment.

Leading Hospitals for Liver Cancer Treatment in Chennai

Choose Your Preferred City

Doctors for Liver Cancer Treatment in Chennai

Explore Similar Treatment Costs in India

Blogs

The Art of Effective Communication