Turkey launches nationwide breast cancer awareness and screening campaigns

Throughout October, various regions in Turkey have implemented extensive breast cancer awareness initiatives and screening programs. Health officials and medical experts are emphasizing the critical role of early diagnosis in improving treatment success rates.

In a significant milestone, Turkish Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu announced that Cancer Early Diagnosis, Screening and Training Centers (KETEM) recorded a record-breaking 8,235 mammographies in a single day on October 20. The Minister urged women aged 40–69 to utilize these free screening services available at 499 centers nationwide.

Local awareness activities have spanned multiple provinces, including Kahramanmaraş, Kocaeli, Muğla, and Tekirdağ. These events featured medical seminars, theatrical performances, and public walks to educate citizens on self-examination and regular check-ups. In Van, KETEM officials highlighted specific screening protocols for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers.

Personal testimonies from medical professionals and cancer survivors have also been central to these campaigns, highlighting the life-saving benefits of early detection and encouraging women to prioritize regular mammograms.