Why is Turkey notable for its cancer treatments?
Turkey has become a globally recognized destination for cancer care, offering exceptional treatment options, patient outcomes, and accessibility. Here’s why patients from around the world choose Turkey for their cancer treatment:
1️⃣ High survival rates
Cancer survival rates in Turkey are comparable to those of other developed countries. Examples of five-year survival rates include:
- Breast cancer: 86%.
- Lung cancer: 100% for patients with early-stage lung cancer, 65%–70% for the advanced stage.
- Uterine cancer: 85%.
The overall five-year survival rate for childhood cancer in Turkey has reached 74.4%. For specific types, such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma, survival rates improved dramatically from 63.7% to 91.8% after 2002.
2️⃣ Latest technology and world-class facilities
Turkey offers advanced cancer treatments, including Da Vinci robotic surgery, CyberKnife and Gamma Knife surgery, immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and advanced diagnostic tools like PET/CT scans and MRIs.
3️⃣ Focus on early diagnosis
After 2002, the percentage of patients diagnosed at an early stage in Turkey increased significantly. For instance, advanced-stage diagnoses for neuroblastoma dropped from 82.4% to 56.2% after 2002. This shift improved survival rates for several cancers, including neuroblastoma (from 46.8% to 70.5%).
4️⃣ Cost-effective treatment
The combination of lower operational costs and favorable living costs in Turkey leads to the overall affordability of medical services. Cancer treatment costs in Turkey range from $4,000 to $20,000, significantly lower than in the United States, where expenses can exceed $100,000. Patients receive world-class care, from diagnostics to advanced therapies, at a fraction of the cost.
5️⃣ Multidisciplinary approach to care
Turkish hospitals adopt a team-based approach to cancer treatment. Specialists in oncology, surgery, radiology, and other fields collaborate to develop comprehensive treatment plans. As a result, patients receive well-rounded care according to their specific conditions.
6️⃣ Accessibility for international patients
Turkey’s strategic location makes it easily accessible from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Leading hospitals like Anadolu Medical Center and Memorial Clinic offer specialized services for international patients, including translation assistance and travel support.
7️⃣ Short wait times
Minimizing delays can be critical in cancer care. Patients can often arrange treatment in Turkey within a few days, compared to weeks in Germany and months in the USA.
What cancer types does Turkey provide treatment for?
Turkey provides treatment for a wide range of cancer types, including:
- Breast cancer. One of the most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide, affecting breast tissue and lymph nodes.
- Gynecological cancers. Includes ovarian, cervical, uterine (endometrial), and vaginal cancers, impacting the female reproductive system.
- Lung and thoracic cancers. Encompasses lung cancer and cancers of the chest cavity, such as mesothelioma, affecting the respiratory system.
- Gastrointestinal and colorectal cancers. Includes colorectal, stomach, liver, and pancreatic cancers, impacting the digestive tract and associated organs.
- Hematological cancers (blood cancers). Covers leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, which originate in the blood, bone marrow, or lymphatic system.
- Pediatric oncology. Includes cancers affecting children, such as neuroblastoma, Wilms tumor, leukemia, and retinoblastoma.
- Head and neck cancers. Cancers of the mouth, throat, nasal cavity, sinuses, and salivary glands.
- Genitourinary cancers. Covers prostate, kidney, testicle, and bladder cancer, affecting the male reproductive and urinary systems.
- Sarcomas and soft tissue cancers. Cancers that form in bones, muscles, and connective tissues, such as osteosarcoma and rhabdomyosarcoma.
- Rare and neuroendocrine cancers. Uncommon cancers, such as neuroendocrine tumors, which arise in hormone-producing cells.
- Brain cancers. Tumors originating in the brain and central nervous system, including gliomas, meningiomas, and medulloblastomas.
- Metastatic and advanced cancers. Refers to cancers that have spread to other organs or tissues, complicating treatment.
What types of cancer treatments are available in Turkey?
Turkish clinics have a comprehensive range of cancer treatments. Here's an overview of the main types of cancer treatments available in Turkey:
1️⃣ Surgical oncology
Surgery remains one of the primary treatments for cancer, aiming to remove tumors and surrounding tissues. In Turkey, surgical options include:
- breast cancer surgery (including lumpectomy and mastectomy);
- thyroid resection;
- stomach cancer surgery;
- colon cancer surgery;
- prostatectomy;
- nephrectomy;
- liver cancer removal;
- melanoma surgery;
- brain tumor removal.
2️⃣ Radiation therapy
In radiation oncology, high-energy rays are used to target and kill cancer cells. Advanced radiotherapy techniques available in Turkey include:
- Proton-beam therapy. Effective for hard-to-reach tumors, such as in the brain or near vital organs.
- Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). Delivers highly focused radiation in fewer sessions, ideal for brain and lung cancers.
- Brachytherapy. Involves implanting radiation sources directly into or near the tumor for localized treatment.
- CyberKnife radiosurgery. A non-invasive method for treating brain and spinal cord tumors with pinpoint accuracy.
3️⃣ Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells. It is commonly used for cancers like breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and leukemia.
4️⃣ Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy boosts the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Turkey offers:
- Checkpoint inhibitors. These drugs block proteins that prevent the immune system from attacking cancer cells.
- CAR-T cell therapy. A patient’s T-cells are modified in a lab to better recognize and destroy malignant cells. It’s primarily used for blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma.
5️⃣ Targeted therapy
Targeted therapy focuses on specific molecules or genetic mutations that drive cancer growth. It’s effective for breast cancer, lung cancer, and some types of leukemia.
6️⃣ Hormone therapy
Hormone therapy is designed for cancers that rely on hormones to grow, such as breast and prostate cancers. It works by:
- blocking hormone receptors on malignant cells;
- reducing the production of hormones like estrogen or testosterone.
7️⃣ Bone marrow transplant
For cancers affecting blood and bone marrow, like leukemia and lymphoma, Turkey offers such types of bone marrow transplantation:
- autologous bone marrow transplants (using the patient’s own cells);
- allogeneic transplants (using donor cells);
- haploidentical transplants (using cells from a half-matched donor).
8️⃣ Ablative therapies
Ablative therapies provide non-invasive or minimally invasive options to destroy cancerous tissues:
- Radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Uses heat to destroy malignant cells, commonly applied for liver or kidney cancers.
- High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). Focused ultrasound waves target tumors with minimal side effects.
Latest Advancements in Cancer Treatment
Innovative breakthroughs in cancer care are transforming how we diagnose and treat oncological diseases. Here are some of the recent advancements that improve cancer detection and survival rates:
Smarter diagnostics 🧪
- PET/CT imaging. Identifies cancer in hard-to-diagnose areas like the head and neck, reducing undetected cases from 9% to 1–2%.
- AI-powered tools. Models like TOAD and ‘Sybil’ identify tumor origins with 83% precision and predict lung cancer risks 6 years in advance.
- Liquid biopsies. Non-invasive blood tests detect cancer with 99% precision, making early diagnosis easier and safer.
Advanced treatments 🎯
- Immunotherapy. Treatments like checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., pembrolizumab) show remarkable success, with 85% survival rates in advanced colorectal cancer. CAR-T cell therapy achieves remission in 90% of patients with blood cancers such as lymphoma.
- Proton beam therapy. This method spares healthy tissue while treating cancer. 88% of cancer patients avoid severe complications. Complications arise over 2 times less often than with traditional radiation therapy.
- Robotic-assisted surgery. Enhances precision and reduces risks like blood loss and infections. Offers faster recovery for patients undergoing complex procedures.
How do Turkish clinics ensure accurate cancer diagnosis?
Cancer diagnosis is a complex process requiring advanced technology, skilled specialists, and a systematic approach. Turkish clinics deliver precise diagnoses by combining modern equipment with expertise in medical oncology.
1️⃣ Laboratory tests
Laboratory tests measure chemical levels in blood, urine, and other body fluids. Abnormal levels may indicate cancer. Examples include:
- tumor marker tests, which detect specific proteins linked to certain cancers;
- liquid biopsies, which analyze cancer DNA in the bloodstream;
- cytology, which examines cells from bodily fluids or tissue scrapings for abnormalities.
2️⃣ Imaging tests
Imaging tests create detailed pictures of internal organs, helping to identify tumors, assess size, and check for spread.
Standard imaging methods include:
3️⃣ Endoscopy
Endoscopy involves using a camera-equipped tool to look inside the patient’s body for tumors. Examples include:
- gastroscopy (stomach and esophagus);
- colonoscopy (colon and rectum);
- bronchoscopy (lungs).
4️⃣ Biopsies
Biopsies confirm cancer diagnoses by analyzing tumor tissue. Pathologists examine biopsied tissue under a microscope and may use molecular profiling to determine the cancer’s type, stage, and best treatment options.
How much does cancer treatment cost in Turkey?
In Turkey, the average cost of cancer treatment ranges from $4,000 to $20,000, depending on the type of cancer and treatment required. Costs in Turkey are lower than in the United States by 50%–85%.
The significant cost difference makes Turkey an appealing destination for cancer treatment, especially since costs in the US continue to rise at a 15% rate. Below is an example of possible cancer treatment costs in the two countries:
|
Treatment Type |
Cost in Turkey |
Cost in the US |
|
Chemotherapy |
$2,000–$8,500 per cycle |
$10,000–$17,000 per cycle |
|
Radiation therapy |
$17,000–$50,000 |
|
|
Surgery |
$5,000–$15,000 |
$29,000–$100,000+ |
|
Immunotherapy |
$30,000–$150,000 |
|
|
Targeted therapy |
$100,000+ |
❗ Note that these costs are approximate and can vary significantly based on the following factors:
- type and stage of cancer;
- treatment plan;
- duration of treatment and number of cycles or sessions;
- clinic or hospital providing care;
- patient's overall health and any additional procedures required.
Which are the best hospitals for cancer treatment in Turkey?
Bookimed's Ranking Policy considers key factors like the number of patients, reviews, comprehensive treatment programs, clinic efficiency, and accolades. According to this research, the top 3 hospitals for cancer treatment in Turkey are:
1️⃣ Anadolu Medical Center
Anadolu Medical Center is affiliated with Johns Hopkins Hospital and provides American-standard cancer care. The Medical Travel Quality Alliance (MTQUA) ranks it among the world’s top 10 hospitals for medical tourists.
Key advantages of Anadolu Medical Center:
- State-of-the-art technology. Anadolu Medical Center employs CyberKnife, TrueBeam, Da Vinci robotic surgery, PET/CT, and 3 Tesla MRI for accurate cancer diagnosis and treatment.
- Specialized expertise. Nine oncology departments focus on breast, gastrointestinal, brain, and spine cancers, among others.
- Bone marrow transplant. Over 3,000 successful transplants have been performed under the guidance of Professor Zafer Gulbas. Professor Dr. Gulbas trained at the largest cancer center in the world—the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.
Accreditations:
- Joint Commission International (JCI);
- International Organization for Standardization (ISO);
- European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO);
- Organization of European Cancer Institutes (OECI);
- International Accreditation System for Interventional Oncology Services (IASIOS).
2️⃣ Memorial Hospital
Memorial Şişli Hospital is Turkey’s first hospital accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI). It is part of a medical group serving patients from over 92 countries.
Key advantages of Memorial Hospital:
- Advanced oncology treatments. Memorial Hospital is equipped with TrueBeam STx and IMRT for precise radiation therapy. Specializes in minimally invasive cancer surgeries using Da Vinci robotics and laparoscopy.
- Comprehensive cancer care. Memorial Clinic offers chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and bone marrow transplantation with sterile wards and HEPA filters to ensure safety.
- Bone marrow transplant. Memorial Clinic performs 100 bone marrow transplants annually with an 80%–90% success rate.
- Innovative chemotherapy care. The DigniCap system prevents hair loss during chemo, while targeted drugs minimize side effects.
Accreditations:
- JCI;
- ISO;
- Compliance with the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and ESMO guidelines.
3️⃣ Hisar Hospital Intercontinental
Hisar Hospital combines advanced diagnostic technologies, treatment safety, and a patient-focused approach. It treats over 250,000 patients annually.
Key advantages of Hisar Hospital:
- Treatment safety. The PYXIS automated medication system ensures accurate drug dosages and minimizes errors.
- Advanced diagnostics. Equipped with Aquilion 640-slice CT for high-precision imaging and 3 Tesla MRI with reduced noise for patient comfort.
- Comprehensive oncology care. Specializes in both adult and pediatric oncology with a focus on precise and minimally invasive procedures.
Accreditations:
- Joint Commission International (JCI)
Who are the best oncologists in Turkey?
Specialization: Hematology and oncology, bone marrow transplants.
Experience: 48 years.
Prof. Dr. Zafer Gulbas is Turkey’s leading hematologist-oncologist. As the founder of the Bone Marrow Transplantation Center at Anadolu Clinic, he has performed over 3,000 bone marrow transplants.
International training:
- Hadassah Medical Center (Israel);
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center (USA);
- MD Anderson Cancer Center (USA);
- Princess Margaret Hospital (Canada).
Specialization: Sarcoma, lymphoma, breast cancer surgery, immunotherapy.
Experience: 32 years.
Dr. Bülent Karagöz focuses on complex cases involving sarcomas, lymphomas, and breast cancer. His proficiency extends to tumor biology, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies. With over 40 publications, Dr. Karagöz is a prominent figure in cancer research.
Professional affiliations:
- Turkish Medical Oncology Association
Specialization: Breast cancer, colorectal, and urogenital cancers.
Experience: 28 years.
Dr. Sinan Karaaslan is a seasoned clinical oncologist specializing in the treatment of breast, colorectal, and urogenital cancers.
Professional affiliations:
- Turkish Medical Association
- Turkish Medical Oncology Society
- Turkish Lung Cancer Society
Specialization: Precision medicine, preventive oncology.
Experience: 21 years.
Dr. Yesim Yildirim is an oncologist certified by the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO). She has an extensive background in treating breast cancer.
Academic contributions:
- Author and co-author of several medical books, including Handbook of Advanced Cancer Care Treatment.
- Over 80 publications in international journals.
Professional affiliations:
- European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO);
- European School of Oncology (ESO).
What services are available for international cancer patients in Turkey?
Turkish clinics provide a number of additional services for international patients free of charge:
1️⃣ Travel assistance. Visa support, airport transfers, and help booking accommodations near the hospital.
2️⃣ Language support. Multilingual assistance in English, Spanish, Arabic, Russian, Albanian, Romanian, and other languages.
3️⃣ International departments. Dedicated teams manage appointments, diagnostics, and treatment schedules while translating medical documents.
4️⃣ Comprehensive packages. Clinics offer all-inclusive packages covering diagnostics, therapies, post-treatment care, and follow-ups.
5️⃣ Remote consultations. Patients can receive second opinions or pre-travel consultations to confirm their treatment plans.
6️⃣ Post-treatment care. Telemedicine services allow patients to maintain follow-ups from their home countries.
What are the success stories of patients treated in Turkey for cancer?
Turkey is the source of many inspiring cancer recovery stories. Here are just some of the reviews from international patients highlighting Turkey’s reputation as a leader in oncology:
A 4-year-old Carolina successfully overcame Burkitt lymphoma with the care provided by Medipol Clinic. Her story is a testament to the advanced cancer treatments available in Turkey. Read her full story here.
How to choose the best Turkish clinic for treating cancer?
1️⃣ Look for international accreditations
Choose clinics certified by reputable organizations like JCI or ESMO. Clinics with these accreditations follow strict international standards for cancer care.
2️⃣ Check for specialized expertise in oncology
Research if the clinic has oncologists with proven expertise in treating your specific type of cancer. Look for doctors trained at institutions like Johns Hopkins or European oncology centers.
3️⃣ Evaluate technology and equipment
Look for clinics equipped with PET/CT scanners, CyberKnife, Da Vinci robotic systems, or TrueBeam radiation therapy machines. These technologies enable more accurate diagnosis and targeted treatments while minimizing side effects.
4️⃣ Seek clinics with multidisciplinary teams
Opt for facilities where oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and pathologists collaborate on your treatment plan. This approach is particularly effective for complex cancers like colorectal or pancreatic cancer.
5️⃣ Read verified patient reviews
Patient reviews, testimonials, and success rates provide valuable insights into the clinic’s track record. Look for case studies or documented evidence of successful treatments.
6️⃣ Ensure support for international patients
Choose clinics offering dedicated services for foreign patients, such as airport transfers, language interpretation, visa support, and assistance finding nearby accommodations.
7️⃣ Compare treatment packages and costs
Treatment costs in Turkey are generally 50%–85% lower than in countries like the US, but prices vary by clinic and treatment type. Request detailed quotes from clinics to compare services and value.
How to organize cancer treatment in Turkey?
👉 Submit a request. Fill out a quick form on the Bookimed website with basic details about your condition.
👉 Consult a medical coordinator. A Bookimed expert will contact you to discuss your situation, explain available options, and help you decide on the next steps.
👉 Choose a clinic. With Bookimed’s support, select a clinic in Turkey that best meets your medical needs, preferences, and budget.
👉 Share medical records. Upload your medical documents for evaluation by Turkish specialists.
👉 Receive a treatment plan. Within 3–5 days, you’ll receive a detailed plan, including costs, treatment options, and timelines.
👉 Confirm and schedule. After you approve the plan, Bookimed will help you set a suitable treatment date.
👉 Make travel arrangements. Bookimed assists with visa applications, flights, airport transfers, and accommodations.
👉 Start treatment. Focus on your health while Bookimed provides ongoing support during your stay.
💚 Bookimed’s assistance is free. Submit your request today to take the first step toward recovery.
Resources
- Biosensors. (2024). Advances in Cancer Research: Current and Future Diagnostic and Therapeutic Strategies. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10886776/
- Journal of Clinical Oncology. (2023). Sybil: A Validated Deep Learning Model to Predict Future Lung Cancer Risk From a Single Low-Dose Chest Computed Tomography. https://ascopubs.org/doi/full/10.1200/JCO.22.01345
- Annals of Gastroenterological Surgery. (2021). Recent developments in cancer research: Expectations for a new remedy. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8316733/
- Mayo Clinic. (2023). Mayo Clinic Q and A: 5 advances in cancer treatment. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-5-advances-in-cancer-treatment/
- National Cancer Institute. (2020). Is Proton Therapy Safer than Traditional Radiation? https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2020/proton-therapy-safety-versus-traditional-radiation
- Pediatric Blood & Cancer. (2021). Epidemiology and survival of childhood cancer in Turkey. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33034155/
- American Cancer Society. (2022). New Study Shows Patients Paying More Out-of-Pocket Costs for Cancer Care. https://pressroom.cancer.org/OutofPocketCosts