Cancer Screening in Turkey

Many people choose to go abroad for cancer screenings. Because it can be more affordable and give them access to the latest medical technologies. Turkey has become a popular choice for these screenings due to the quality healthcare services it offers. And low costs. As a matter of fact, there has been an increase of over 30 percent in the number of international patients coming to Turkey for healthcare in the last five years. This is because Turkey offers modern tools to detect cancer and has experienced doctors, allowing people to undergo comprehensive screenings without spending a lot of money.

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

Cancer screening in Turkey at a glance

Figures are ranges, not promises. Suitability needs an individual assessment by a doctor.

Cancer screening 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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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.

Read our full clinic ranking policy

The Benefits of Choosing Cancer Screening in Turkey

Access to Advanced Diagnostic Technologies

Turkey’s hospitals and clinics have some of the latest equipment for cancer screening, like high-tech imaging machines and advanced blood tests. These tools help find cancer early, which is very important for successful treatment. In Turkey, these advanced technologies are often more available and cost less than in many Western countries, so patients can get top care without waiting too long.

Highly Qualified Medical Professionals

Doctors in Turkey, including cancer specialists and radiologists, are very skilled and often have training from top medical centers around the world. Many have experience from studying or working in well-known hospitals outside of Turkey. This means they have a lot of knowledge and are very good at what they do, so patients can feel confident they are getting great from nearby regions or countries with similar traditions, help make patients feel more at ease during their stay. This friendly environment can reduce stress and make the whole screening process more comfortable and reassuring.

The Cost of Cancer Screening in Turkey

The cost of cancer screening in Turkey is often much lower than in many Western countries. A complete screening package in Turkey typically costs between €300 and €1,000. It depends on the specific tests you need. This is much more affordable than prices in places like the United States or Europe. Making Turkey a great choice for people seeking high-quality medical care at a lower cost.

The Best Candidate for Cancer Screening

Cancer screening is an important step in catching cancer early when it’s easiest to treat. The best candidates for cancer screening are:

  • People with a family history of cancer, especially if close relatives have had the disease.
  • Individuals who are 40 years old or older, as the risk of cancer increases with age.
  • Those with lifestyle risks, such as smoking, heavy drinking, obesity, or exposure to harmful chemicals.
  • Patients showing symptoms that could suggest cancer, like unexplained weight loss, constant tiredness, or unusual lumps.

The Next Steps If You Plan to Have Cancer Screening in Turkey

If you're thinking about having cancer screening in Turkey, here are some steps to follow:

  • Research and select a reputable clinic: Look for clinics with good reviews and proper certifications.
  • Verify the qualifications of the medical team: Make sure the doctors and staff are well-trained and experienced.
  • Prepare all necessary medical records and history: Bring any important medical documents to help doctors understand your health better.
  • Arrange a consultation to discuss screening options: Have a talk with a doctor to decide which screenings are best for you.
  • Check for package deals that include accommodation and transportation: Many clinics offer deals that can save money and simplify your travel.
  • Understand the follow-up care process: Ask what happens after the screening and whether any more tests or treatments will be needed.

What is Cancer Screening?

Cancer screening involves a set of tests that look for cancer before there are any symptoms. The purpose is to find cancer early, when it’s easier to treat. By catching cancer early, treatments can be more effective and improve the chances of a good outcome.

Cancer Screening Recovery Timeline

When planning for cancer screening, it’s good to know what to expect after the tests. Here are some key points:

How long will the recovery take?

Most cancer screening tests do not require a long recovery. You can usually go about your day right after most screenings, though some tests might need a short rest period.

How long will they need to stay in Turkey?

The stay in Turkey could be a few days to a week, depending on how many screenings you have and if there are follow-up visits needed to discuss your results.

When can the patient return to work?

Patients can typically return to work the same day or the day after most screenings. It depends on the type of test and how you feel afterward.

When can the patient return to exercise?

Light activities can usually be resumed immediately, but for more strenuous exercise, it’s best to check with your doctor after the screening.

When will the final results be visible?

Test results are often available within a few days to a week. Your doctor will let you know when to expect them and discuss any findings with you.

What types of activities to avoid?

After some types of screenings, like a colonoscopy, you might be advised to avoid heavy lifting or intense activities for a short time.

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

Most cancer screenings don’t require a specific diet after the test. However, some tests might suggest eating light or avoiding certain foods for a short time.

How Does Cancer Screening Procedure Work

Cancer screening involves a few simple steps. Here’s what usually happens:

Consultation

During the consultation, you’ll meet with a doctor who will talk with you about your medical history and recommend the screenings that are best for you. This is a good time to ask any questions and understand what to expect.

Before the Screening

Before your screening, you might need to do a few things to get ready. This could include fasting (not eating or drinking) for a few hours, stopping certain medications, or wearing comfortable clothes.

The Screening

The screening itself will depend on the tests you’re having. It could be something like a blood test, an imaging test like an MRI, or a procedure like a colonoscopy. Your doctor will explain exactly what will happen during the test.

Follow-Up

Follow-up appointments are usually scheduled a few days to a week after the screening. This is when you’ll discuss the results with your doctor and talk about any next steps if needed.

Side Effects of Cancer Screening Procedure

While cancer screenings are generally safe, there can be some minor side effects. Here are a few things to be aware of:

  • Mild discomfort or pain during certain tests
  • Feeling tired or weak after some screenings
  • A chance of false positives (test suggests cancer when there isn’t) or false negatives (test misses cancer when it is there)
  • Minor bleeding or bruising from blood tests or biopsy sites

Cancer Screening Surgery Results

The results of cancer screenings can help detect cancer early. When it’s easiest to treat. For instance, mammograms can find breast cancer with about 85% accuracy in women aged 50 and older. A study in the Journal of Medical Screening shows that getting regular screenings can significantly boost the chances of successful treatment. Catching cancer early often means better results and a higher chance of survival.

How to Prepare for Cancer Screening Surgery

To get ready for your cancer screening, here are some simple steps to follow:

  • Avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the test if your doctor says it’s needed.
  • Stop taking certain medications as advised by your doctor

Frequently asked questions

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

How often should I have cancer screenings?

The frequency of cancer screenings depends on your personal risk factors, such as age, family history, and lifestyle. Generally, it’s best to consult with your doctor to determine how often you should be screened.

What are the most common cancer screening tests?

Common cancer screening tests include mammograms for breast cancer, colonoscopies for colon cancer, and Pap smears for cervical cancer. Blood tests and imaging scans like MRIs and CT scans are also frequently used.

Are cancer screenings painful?

Most cancer screenings are not painful. Some tests, like a blood draw, might cause slight discomfort. Procedures like a colonoscopy could cause mild discomfort, but sedation is often used to help you relax.

Can I eat before a cancer screening?

For some cancer screenings, such as blood tests or a colonoscopy, you might need to fast or avoid certain foods and drinks beforehand. Always follow the specific instructions your doctor gives you.

How accurate are cancer screenings?

The accuracy of cancer screenings varies depending on the type of test. For example, mammograms can detect most breast cancers, while other tests may have a chance of false positives or negatives. It’s important to discuss the accuracy and limitations of each screening with your doctor.

What should I do if my cancer screening results are abnormal?

If your cancer screening results are abnormal, don’t panic. Your doctor will likely recommend additional tests or procedures to determine if there is a real concern. It’s essential to follow up promptly to get a clearer understanding of your health.

Is there a risk of radiation exposure from cancer screenings?

Some cancer screenings, like X-rays, CT scans, and mammograms, involve a small amount of radiation. Your doctor will explain the risks and benefits to help you make an informed decision.

Are cancer screenings covered by insurance?

Coverage for cancer screenings depends on your insurance plan and where you get screened. Many insurance plans cover routine screenings, but it’s a good idea to check with your provider ahead of time.

What is the best age to start cancer screenings?

The best age to start cancer screenings depends on the type of cancer and your individual risk factors. For example, breast cancer screenings often start at age 40 or 50. While colon cancer screenings might start at 45. Your doctor can provide guidance based on your health history.

Can lifestyle changes reduce the need for cancer screenings?

While healthy lifestyle choices like not smoking, eating a balanced diet, and exercising can lower your risk of developing cancer, they don’t replace the need for regular screenings, especially if you have risk factors.

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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