Every year, National Cancer Week is observed in Türkiye from April 1st to 7th with various activities aimed at raising public awareness about cancer prevention, early diagnosis, and healthy lifestyle habits. Cancer is a major public health issue, ranking second after cardiovascular diseases both globally and in Türkiye.
According to 2022 data from the World Health Organization, approximately 20 million new cancer cases were diagnosed, and 9.7 million people died from cancer. It is estimated that 53.5 million people worldwide are living after being diagnosed with cancer. The data indicate that 1 in 5 people will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime; 1 in 9 men and 1 in 12 women will die from cancer. The most commonly diagnosed cancer types both globally and in Türkiye are lung, breast, and colorectal cancers.
National Cancer Screening Programs in Türkiye
Screening programs conducted by the Ministry of Health offer early cancer detection opportunities and are provided free of charge:
• Breast cancer screening: Annual clinical breast examination and biennial mammography for women aged 40–69.
• Cervical cancer screening: HPV-DNA test every 5 years for women aged 30–65.
• Colorectal cancer screening: Biennial fecal occult blood test (FOBT) and colonoscopy every 10 years for men and women aged 50–70.
These screenings are available free of charge at Cancer Early Diagnosis, Screening, and Training Centers (KETEM), Healthy Life Centers (SHM), Family Health Centers (ASM), and through Mobile Screening Units affiliated with Community Health Centers (TSM).
Risk Factors in Cancer Development
Scientific evidence indicates that approximately 90% of cancer cases are due to environmental factors, while only 10% are related to genetics. Tobacco and alcohol use, obesity, and certain infections are among the major environmental risk factors. Effective control of these risk factors could prevent 30–50% of cancer cases. Nutrition is considered one of the most important modifiable risk factors.
The Role of Nutrition in Cancer Prevention
The World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) and the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) provide the following dietary recommendations to reduce cancer risk:
• Increase plant-based food consumption: Foods rich in fiber and antioxidants such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes strengthen the immune system and reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals.
• Limit red and processed meat consumption: Processed meat products (e.g., sausage, salami, hot dogs) are linked to several cancer types, especially colorectal cancer.
• Avoid high-calorie, sugary foods: Excess calorie intake may lead to obesity, which is associated with at least 13 types of cancer.
• Reduce intake of trans fats, excessive salt, and food additives: Prefer homemade meals with natural ingredients over processed and packaged products.
• Limit alcohol consumption: Alcohol is linked to several types of cancer, including breast, liver, colon, and esophageal cancers.
The Mediterranean Diet: A Protective Model
The Mediterranean diet, which includes olive oil, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, fish, and limited red meat, is recommended as an effective model for cancer prevention due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.
The Importance of Nutrition During Cancer Treatment
Proper and adequate nutrition during cancer treatment is critically important for supporting the immune system, improving treatment response, and maintaining quality of life. Personalized nutrition plans should be implemented to address common issues such as loss of appetite, muscle wasting, and malnutrition during the treatment process.
Adopting healthy eating habits is an effective strategy for cancer prevention at both individual and societal levels. When combined with regular screenings, healthy lifestyle choices can lead to significant progress in the fight against cancer.
