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Chemotherapy in Turkey

Many patients decide to travel abroad for chemotherapy to save money, access better treatments, and avoid long waiting times. Turkey has become a popular place for chemotherapy because it offers high-quality care, modern hospitals, and experienced doctors at lower prices. In recent years, more and more international patients have come to Turkey for cancer treatment. A recent study shows that Turkey is one of the top destinations for medical tourism, with thousands of people choosing it every year for treatments like chemotherapy.

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Medically reviewed by Prof. Ediz Altinli, Oncology. Written by Abdulaziz Ali.
Updated 4 September 2024 · Editorial standards

Chemotherapy in Turkey at a glance

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Chemotherapy clinics in Turkey

Each clinic sets its own price, so check what the price includes before comparing two of them.

Clinics are scored and ordered by Flymedi. How ranking works.

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Reviews on Trustpilot

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Why are these clinics ranked this way?

Clinics are scored from patient reviews and ordered by Flymedi. The facts behind each position are listed below. How ranking works.

RankClinicFlymediScoreLead doctorExperienceFromWhy it is ranked here
1Istanbul European Clinic9.3Ediz Altinli13 yearsPrice on requestMost reviewed on this page (435 reviews). Declares TURSAB, MOH, ASAPS, ESCAD, ESHRS, ISAPS, TTB. 23 doctors listed.
2Memorial Sisli Hospital9.14 doctorsNot listedPrice on requestDeclares JCI, EFI, ISO 9001:2000, TTB. 4 doctors listed.
3Medipol Mega University Hospital9.44 doctorsNot listedPrice on requestDeclares JCI. 4 doctors listed.
4Acibadem Healthcare Group9.54 doctorsNot listedPrice on request4 doctors listed.
5Medical Park Gaziosmanpasa Hospital9.7Oncology25 yearsPrice on requestDeclares JCI, CEN, EMBT, ISCT, CIBMTR. 4 doctors listed.
6Koç Healthcare Institutions9.64 doctorsNot listedPrice on requestDeclares JCI. 4 doctors listed.
7Acibadem Maslak Hospital9.6Oncology35 yearsPrice on requestDeclares JCI, ISO 9001:2008. 4 doctors listed.
8Memorial Antalya Hospital9.4Oncology28 yearsPrice on requestDeclares JCI, ISO 9001:2000, TTB. 4 doctors listed.
9Medical Park Antalya Hospital9.74 doctorsNot listedPrice on requestDeclares JCI, CEN, EMBT, ISCT, CIBMTR. 4 doctors listed.
10Florence Nightingale Istanbul9.54 doctorsNot listedPrice on requestDeclares JCI, OHSAS 18001, ISO 9001:2000, TÜV SÜD, ISO 14001. 4 doctors listed.
1Istanbul European Clinic · 9.3
Most reviewed on this page (435 reviews). Declares TURSAB, MOH, ASAPS, ESCAD, ESHRS, ISAPS, TTB. 23 doctors listed.
2Memorial Sisli Hospital · 9.1
Declares JCI, EFI, ISO 9001:2000, TTB. 4 doctors listed.
3Medipol Mega University Hospital · 9.4
Declares JCI. 4 doctors listed.
4Acibadem Healthcare Group · 9.5
4 doctors listed.
5Medical Park Gaziosmanpasa Hospital · 9.7
Declares JCI, CEN, EMBT, ISCT, CIBMTR. 4 doctors listed.
6Koç Healthcare Institutions · 9.6
Declares JCI. 4 doctors listed.
7Acibadem Maslak Hospital · 9.6
Declares JCI, ISO 9001:2008. 4 doctors listed.
8Memorial Antalya Hospital · 9.4
Declares JCI, ISO 9001:2000, TTB. 4 doctors listed.
9Medical Park Antalya Hospital · 9.7
Declares JCI, CEN, EMBT, ISCT, CIBMTR. 4 doctors listed.
10Florence Nightingale Istanbul · 9.5
Declares JCI, OHSAS 18001, ISO 9001:2000, TÜV SÜD, ISO 14001. 4 doctors listed.

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In this article

  1. The Benefits of Choosing Chemotherapy in Turkey
  2. The Cost of Chemotherapy in Turkey
  3. The Best Candidate for Chemotherapy
  4. The Next Steps If You Plan to Have Chemotherapy in Turkey
  5. What is Chemotherapy?
  6. Chemotherapy Recovery Timeline
  7. How Does Chemotherapy Procedure Work
  8. Side Effects of Chemotherapy Procedure

The Benefits of Choosing Chemotherapy in Turkey

Access to Advanced Treatments and Medications

Turkey offers access to the latest chemotherapy drugs and personalized treatment plans. Patients can get the newest therapies. Often at a lower cost than in Western countries. This means patients benefit from the most recent advances in cancer care.

Highly Skilled Oncologists and Medical Staff

Turkey is home to many highly trained oncologists and medical staff with lots of experience treating different types of cancer. Many doctors have trained and worked in top hospitals around the world, so patients receive excellent care from experts who know their field well

Cost-Effective Treatment Options

One of the main reasons people choose Turkey for chemotherapy is the cost savings. Chemotherapy in Turkey usually costs much less than in Western countries, making it a more affordable option for many. This allows patients to receive quality care without a high financial burden.

Comprehensive Support Services

Many clinics in Turkey offer complete support services to help international patients feel comfortable and well taken care of. These services often include translators, patient coordinators who guide you through the treatment process, and follow-up care to ensure you recover smoothly.

Recovery in a Comfortable and Relaxing Environment

Recovering in Turkey allows patients to heal in a peaceful and welcoming setting. The beautiful scenery and friendly culture provide a calming atmosphere, which can help patients relax and focus on getting better.

The Cost of Chemotherapy in Turkey

Chemotherapy in Turkey is usually more affordable than in many Western countries. The cost can range from €2,000 to €8,000 per cycle, depending on the type of drugs and the clinic. This is much cheaper than what patients might pay in the United States or Europe, making Turkey a good choice for those looking for quality cancer treatment at a lower cost.

The Best Candidate for Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a good option for patients who have been diagnosed with cancer and are advised by their doctor to have this treatment. The best candidates for chemotherapy are:

  • Patients with cancer that can be treated with chemotherapy
  • Those who have not responded well to other treatments, like surgery or radiation
  • People looking for advanced chemotherapy options that may not be available in their home country
  • Patients who want a more affordable option for cancer treatment without sacrificing quality

The Next Steps If You Plan to Have Chemotherapy in Turkey

If you’re thinking about having chemotherapy in Turkey, here are some steps to consider:

  • Research and choose a reputable clinic: Look for clinics with good reviews and proper certifications.
  • Verify the credentials and experience of the oncologists: Make sure the doctors are well-qualified and experienced in treating your type of cancer.
  • Prepare all necessary medical records and history: Bring all relevant medical documents, including past test results and treatment records.
  • Schedule a consultation to discuss the treatment plan and potential side effects: Talk with your oncologist about what to expect during and after treatment.
  • Look for package deals that include accommodation and transportation: Many clinics offer packages that make your stay easier and more affordable.
  • Understand the follow-up care and support services available: Ask about the follow-up care you will need and what support is available to help you recover.

What is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses special drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It can be used alone or with other treatments like surgery or radiation. The main goals of chemotherapy are to shrink tumors, prevent cancer from spreading, or help relieve symptoms caused by cancer.

Chemotherapy Recovery Timeline

Knowing what to expect during recovery can help you prepare. Here are some important points:

How long will the recovery take?

Recovery time after each chemotherapy session varies. Some people feel better in a few days, while others may take longer. It often depends on the type of chemotherapy and the person’s overall health.

How long will they need to stay in Turkey?

Patients might need to stay in Turkey for several weeks to complete their chemotherapy and attend follow-up visits.

When can the patient return to work?

Going back to work depends on how you feel after each session. While others may need more rest some people can work part-time during treatment. It’s best to discuss this with your doctor.

When can the patient return to exercise?

Light activities, like walking, are usually fine after a few days. However, it’s important to avoid strenuous exercise until your doctor gives you the go-ahead.

When will the final results be visible?

The effects of chemotherapy can be noticed after a few weeks to a few months, depending on the type of cancer and how it responds to treatment.

What types of activities to avoid?

Avoid heavy lifting, intense exercise, and any activities that could cause injury or infection, especially if your immune system is weak.

What type of diet should the patient expect after the treatment?

Eating a healthy, balanced diet is key. Focus on foods that are easy to digest, and drink plenty of fluids to help your body recover and manage side effects.

How Does Chemotherapy Procedure Work

Chemotherapy involves several steps. Here’s what usually happens:

Consultation

During the consultation, the doctor will review your medical history and discuss your cancer type and treatment options. This is a good time to ask questions and understand what the chemotherapy process will involve.

Before the Chemotherapy

Before starting chemotherapy, you might need to prepare by eating light, staying hydrated, and arranging transportation since you may feel tired after the session.

The Chemotherapy

During a chemotherapy session, the drugs are given through an IV, injection, or sometimes as pills. The treatment can last anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the type of chemotherapy.

Follow-Up

Follow-up appointments are crucial to check how well the treatment is working and manage any side effects. These are usually scheduled a few days or a week after your chemotherapy session.

Side Effects of Chemotherapy Procedure

Chemotherapy can have side effects, which vary depending on the individual and the type of drugs used. Here are some common side effects:

  • Fatigue and feeling weak
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Hair loss
  • Higher risk of getting infections
  • Mouth sores or difficulty eating
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Tingling or numbness in hands and feet

Chemotherapy Surgery Results

The results of chemotherapy depend on the type and stage of cancer. For many types of cancer, chemotherapy can be very effective. According to a study in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, chemotherapy combined with other treatments can have a high success rate. For example, the 5-year survival rate for early-detected breast cancer can be as high as 90% with the right treatment plan.

How to Prepare for Chemotherapy Surgery

Here are some steps to help you get ready for chemotherapy:

  • Drink plenty of water and eat light meals before each session to stay hydrated.
  • Arrange for someone to drive you to and from the clinic, as you might feel tired afterward.
  • Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for at least two weeks before treatment.
  • Tell your doctor about any medications you are taking to see if they need to be adjusted.
  • Plan to take some time off work and get help at home if needed.

Frequently asked questions

Answers from the medical content team, reviewed by the medical reviewer named on this page.

How long does a chemotherapy session take?

A chemotherapy session can last from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the type of treatment.

Is chemotherapy painful?

The chemotherapy itself usually doesn’t hurt, but some side effects like nausea or tiredness can cause discomfort.

Will I lose my hair during chemotherapy?

Hair loss is a common side effect of some chemotherapy drugs, but not all patients will lose their hair.

Can I work while undergoing chemotherapy?

Some people can work during chemotherapy, but it depends on how they feel and the type of work they do. It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about this.

What foods should I eat during chemotherapy?

It’s best to eat a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to help your body stay strong.

How can I manage nausea during chemotherapy?

Your doctor can prescribe anti-nausea medications, and eating small, frequent meals 

can also help manage nausea.

Are there any long-term side effects of chemotherapy?

Some people might have long-term effects, such as fatigue or numbness in their hands and feet. It’s important to discuss any concerns with your doctor.

How will I know if chemotherapy is working?

Your doctor will monitor your progress with regular scans and blood tests to see how well the treatment is working.

Can I exercise during chemotherapy?

Light exercise, like walking, is often okay, but you should talk to your doctor before starting any new activities.

What should I bring to my chemotherapy session?

Bring things that help you relax, like a book, music, snacks, water, and a blanket to stay comfortable during the session.

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About this page

Written by Abdulaziz Ali, Leading Medical Writer & Strategist at Flymedi. Medically reviewed by Prof. Ediz Altinli, Oncology. Content updated 4 September 2024. Next scheduled review 4 September 2025.

This page is general information, not personal medical advice. It does not diagnose you and it does not replace an individual assessment by a doctor who has examined you.

Found something wrong or out of date on this page? Tell us and we will check it. Editorial standards and reviewer list: authors and reviewers.

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