In Türkiye, National Cancer Week is observed annually between April 1st and 7th, aiming to raise public awareness about cancer prevention, early diagnosis, and healthy lifestyle practices. Cancer remains a major public health challenge, ranking second only to cardiovascular diseases as a leading cause of death both globally and in Türkiye.
According to the World Health Organization’s 2022 data, nearly 20 million new cancer diagnoses were recorded, with approximately 9.7 million cancer-related deaths. The estimated number of people living after a cancer diagnosis is around 53.5 million. It is reported that 1 in 5 people will face cancer during their lifetime, with 1 in 9 men and 1 in 12 women expected to die due to the disease. The most commonly diagnosed types of cancer worldwide and in Türkiye are lung, breast, and colorectal cancers.
Free Cancer Screenings in Türkiye
Within the scope of the National Cancer Screening Programs carried out by the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Health, free screening services are provided for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers:
• Breast cancer: Annual clinical breast examination and biennial mammography for women aged 40–69.
• Cervical cancer: HPV-DNA test every 5 years for women aged 30–65.
• Colorectal cancer: Biennial fecal occult blood test and colonoscopy every 10 years for individuals aged 50–70.
These services are available free of charge at Cancer Early Diagnosis, Screening and Training Centers, Healthy Life Centers, Family Health Centers, and mobile screening units.
The Link Between Diet and Cancer Development
Scientific evidence indicates that around 90% of cancer cases stem from environmental causes, while only about 10% are due to hereditary factors. Tobacco and alcohol use, excess weight, and certain viral infections are among the leading environmental risks. Proper management of these factors can prevent nearly half of all cancer cases. Among them, nutrition stands out as one of the most modifiable and impactful elements.
Dietary Guidelines for Cancer Prevention
The World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research recommend the following strategies to help reduce cancer risk:
• Follow a plant-based diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes.
• Limit consumption of red and processed meats such as sausages and salami.
• Reduce intake of high-calorie, sugary, and fatty foods.
• Choose homemade meals with natural ingredients over processed foods with additives.
• Minimize or eliminate alcohol consumption.
Mediterranean Diet: A Protective Approach
A dietary pattern based on olive oil, fresh vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and fish — known as the Mediterranean diet is recommended for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, offering a protective strategy against cancer.
The Role of Nutrition During Treatment
Proper and balanced nutrition plays a vital role in cancer treatment by supporting immunity, enhancing treatment outcomes, and maintaining quality of life. Issues such as loss of appetite and muscle wasting should be addressed with personalized nutrition plans tailored to the patient’s condition.
Adopting a balanced, conscious, and sustainable eating pattern is a crucial step not only in preventing chronic diseases but also in improving overall quality of life. When combined with early detection and routine screenings, healthy dietary habits can significantly strengthen the fight against cancer.
