Türkiye has screened 16.1 million people for cancer, with further examinations resulting in 36,000 cancer diagnoses, according to the Health Ministry.
The ministry released the figures as part of Public Health Week, held Sept. 3-9, with the seventh and final day, focused on the theme “Early Diagnosis in Cancer Saves Lives.”
People whose initial screening results indicate potential health risks are referred to higher-level health care facilities for further examinations, the ministry said.
More than 515,000 screenings have also been carried out through mobile cancer screening vehicles, expanding access to screening services across Türkiye.
Cancer screening and early diagnosis services are provided through Cancer Early Diagnosis, Screening and Education Centers (KETEM), where screening programs, cancer prevention education and public awareness activities are carried out.
Türkiye has 486 KETEM units, including 428 centers operating within Healthy Life Centers and 58 mobile KETEM screening vehicles.
Free screening programs are available for breast, colorectal and cervical cancers, with services provided through KETEMs, Healthy Life Centers, Community Health Centers and Family Health Centers.
Mobile KETEM vehicles also provide screening services to communities, helping extend access beyond fixed healthcare facilities.
The ministry said screening programs target cancers that are common, preventable or more treatable when detected at an early stage.
Tests are offered to specific age and gender groups to help detect cancer before it progresses.
Health Minister Kemal Memişoğlu urged the public to make use of free cancer screening services.
