Cancer Treatment in Turkey

Cancer treatment in Turkey is in high demand among patients from all over the world. More than 1.5 million medical tourists visit the country annually, and a significant number of them come to receive high-quality medical care for cancer diagnoses. The main factors that attract international patients to Turkey include modern methods of diagnosis and treatment of malignant tumors, highly qualified specialists, and affordable prices.

Cancer treatment in Turkey involves the use of innovative techniques such as robotic surgery, personalized chemotherapy, high-precision radiation therapy, and proton therapy. These approaches minimize side effects while ensuring high effectiveness in combating cancer.

The Best Cancer Hospitals in Turkey

Cancer hospitals in Turkey offer comfortable conditions for patients. The considerate and attentive medical staff provides patients with comprehensive support at all stages of therapy. Most Turkish hospitals have international accreditations confirming their compliance with high standards of safety and quality. This is why patients who decide to undergo cancer treatment abroad choose Turkish clinics.

University hospital LIV Istinye

Oncology is one of the main specializations of Liv Istinye Hospital in Turkey. Specialists use the most advanced approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of malignant tumors. The hospital’s doctors actively use modern imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) for early detection and precise staging of cancer. Both standard and innovative techniques are offered, including transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA), which are suitable for patients with contraindications to surgical treatment. The clinic also provides access to the CANCERAX cancer vaccine, a modern immunotherapy method for cancer treatment.

Liv Hospital Vadistanbul

Liv Hospital Vadistanbul is equipped with high-tech equipment, including robotic surgery systems and new generation linear accelerators for radiation therapy. The clinic specializes in personalized antitumor therapy, including the use of targeted and immunotherapeutic drugs. Qualified doctors also use advanced treatment methods, such as 3D brachytherapy and high-precision MR-Linac radiotherapy. Doctors carry out extensive work to monitor the side effects of cancer therapy, providing support to patients throughout their treatment. The clinic pays special attention to the comfort and safety of patients.

Anadolu Medical Center

Anadolu Medical Center in Istanbul is one of the leading hospitals in oncology, offering modern methods of diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The center was founded as a specialized oncology hospital and has since expanded its services significantly, becoming a multidisciplinary medical facility. Anadolu Clinic is equipped with advanced medical equipment that allows for highly precise diagnostic procedures and employs effective treatment methods. The center’s specialists use such innovative approaches as CyberKnife radiosurgery, TrueBeam radiation therapy, Da Vinci robotic surgery, liquid biopsy, and more.

Anadolu Hospital maintains a strategic partnership with Johns Hopkins Medicine, providing access to the latest advancements in medicine. The clinic is certified to international quality standards by JCI and has ESMO (European Society for Medical Oncology) and holds certifications from ESMO (European Society for Medical Oncology) and ISO13.

Medipol University Hospital

Medipol Medical Center in Istanbul is one of the largest multidisciplinary hospitals in Turkey. The clinic was founded on the basis of the university and offers high-quality oncology care that meets international standards.

Medipol University Hospital is equipped with modern medical equipment that allows for highly accurate diagnostics and treatment:

• 256-slice CT and 3 Tesla MRI: for detailed tumor imaging;
• PET-CT: for early cancer detection and treatment evaluation;
• Da Vinci robotic system: used to perform minimally invasive surgeries for various types of cancer;
• Varian Trilogy and True Beam linear accelerators: for high-precision radiation therapy using RapidArc technology;
• CyberKnife and Gamma Knife: used for radiosurgery, enabling non-invasive treatment of tumors without traditional surgery.

Medicana Hospitals Group

Medicana Hospitals Network in Turkey includes 14 clinics, among which Medicana International in Istanbul stands out for its high-quality medical services and advanced equipment. The clinic offers a wide range of specialties, including oncology, and is known for its innovative treatment methods.

Medicana International ensures comfortable conditions for patients. The clinic offers standard and VIP rooms, as well as airport transfer services. The hospital is actively involved in scientific research and the development of new methods of antitumor therapy, which makes it one of the leaders in oncology in Turkey. The Medicana network provides a high level of service and medical care, attracting patients from all over the world.

Medical Park Hospitals Network

Medical Park Hospitals Network is known for its high level of diagnostics and treatment of malignant tumors. The network’s oncology centers use the latest treatment methods, such as radiosurgery, proton therapy, and personalized chemotherapy. The hospital has the ability to perform high-precision, minimally invasive robotic surgeries using the Da Vinci system. The clinic’s doctors pay special attention to accurate cancer diagnostics. To create a personalized treatment protocol, specialists use the method of molecular tumor profiling. Medical Park doctors support patients at all stages of treatment, providing psychological assistance and developing individual rehabilitation programs.

These facilities represent only a fraction of the medical centers in Turkey that provide high-quality cancer care. Write or call us, and an experienced MedTour coordinating physician will help you choose a clinic tailored to your condition and personal preferences.

Innovative Methods of Cancer Treatment in Turkey

Today, Turkey occupies a leading position in the treatment of oncological diseases due to the use of modern equipment, innovative technologies, and a high level of professionalism of specialists. The country attracts patients from all over the world with the opportunity to receive high-quality treatment, comparable to world standards, at an affordable cost. Innovative approaches and personalized treatment methods make Turkey one of the world’s effective centers for combating cancer.

Chemotherapy in Turkey

Chemotherapy in Turkey involves the use of anti-tunor drugs to slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells. The country’s oncology centers offer modern chemotherapy methods that meet international standards and ensure highly effective therapy.

Turkish doctors actively use innovative chemotherapy approaches aimed at minimizing side effects and improving treatment outcomes:

• HIPEC (hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy): a technique in which a hot solution of chemotherapy drug is injected directly into the abdominal cavity. This allows for high drug concentrations in the tumor area and minimizes systemic side effects.
• Chemoembolization: A procedure in which chemotherapy drugs are injected into the blood vessels supplying the tumor. This approach provides local action on cancer cells and reduces toxicity to the entire body.
• Implantable port systems: These are used for long-term drug administration, which allows to avoid multiple injections and improve the quality of life during the course of treatment.

Turkish doctors pay great attention to the prevention and control of side effects, prescribing maintenance courses of therapy. Additionally, oncology clinics in Turkey offer rehabilitation programs after chemotherapy, which helps patients regain strength and improve their overall health.

Radiation Therapy in Turkey

Radiotherapy is one of the main methods of cancer treatment in Turkey. This method involves using ionizing radiation to kill cancer cells or slow their growth.

There are several types of radiation therapy available in Turkey, each offering unique features and advantages:

• 3D-CRT: Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy, which allows beams to be precisely adjusted to the shape of the tumor.
• IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy): Provides individualized radiation dose adjustments to each area of ​​the cancer.
• IGRT (Image-Guided Radiation Therapy): Allows doctors to adjust the patient’s position during the procedure using CT images.
• SBRT (Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy): Used to treat small tumors with a high dose of radiation in a short period of time.
• Proton therapy: Uses proton beams to more precisely target tumors, minimizing the risk of damage to surrounding tissue.
• Brachytherapy: An internal form of radiation therapy in which radioactive sources are placed directly into the tumor area, delivering a high dose of radiation with minimal impact on surrounding tissue.

While radiation therapy may cause side effects such as fatigue, hair loss, or skin changes in the treated area, modern techniques and technologies used in Turkey help minimize them. Doctors monitor patients closely during treatment and, if necessary, prescribe supportive medications to manage side effects. Turkish cancer centers also offer rehabilitation programs after completion of radiation therapy to help patients recover faster and improve their quality of life.

Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy in Turkey

These are modern methods of cancer treatment that are becoming increasingly popular due to their effectiveness and minimal side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.

Targeted therapy

Targeted therapy involves the use of specific drugs that act on specific molecules in cancer cells. This method blocks the processes necessary for the growth and division of tumor cells, making it more targeted than traditional chemotherapy drugs. The main advantages of targeted therapy include:

• Specificity: Targeted drugs act on specific molecules present in cancer cells, reducing the likelihood of damaging healthy tissue.
• Effectiveness: Targeted therapy may be particularly useful for treating tumors that show low sensitivity to traditional chemotherapy.
• Combination approach: Targeted drugs are often used in combination with other treatment methods, which enhances the overall effectiveness of therapy.

Many clinics in Turkey offer individualized targeted therapy regimens based on the molecular characteristics of the patient’s tumor, which allows for better treatment results.

Immunotherapy in Turkey

Immunotherapy in Turkey is a treatment method that involves activating the patient’s own body’s defense mechanisms to fight cancer. This approach involves using various medications, such as monoclonal antibodies and vaccines, that help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Turkish oncology clinics offer a wide range of innovative immunotherapeutic cancer treatment methods that can achieve positive results even in advanced stages of the disease.

Surgical Cancer Treatment in Turkey

Surgery plays a vital role in cancer care and includes a wide range of methods aimed at removing tumors and metastases. Turkey uses various methods of surgical treatment of cancer that comply with international standards and protocols. The following techniques are performed here:

• Open surgeries, in which surgeons remove the tumor through one large incision (up to 20 cm). This approach is used to remove large tumors or in cases where extensive intervention is required.
• Laparoscopic surgery is a less invasive method in which access to the tumor is achieved through several small punctures (up to 1.5 cm). Laparoscopic surgery allows for shorter recovery times and minimal post-operative pain.
• Endoscopic procedures are performed through the body’s natural openings without making incisions on the skin. This method is especially suitable for removing tumors of the gastrointestinal tract and respiratory system.
• Robotic surgery is the use of the Da Vinci system which allows surgeons to perform operations with high precision. The robot is controlled via a specialized console, reducing the risk of human error.

Thanks to the variety of available methods and an individual approach to each patient, Turkey is one of the leading countries for cancer treatment in the international arena.

Prices for Cancer Treatment in Turkey

Cancer treatment in Turkey attracts patients from all over the world due to the high quality of medical care, modern technologies, and affordable prices. Compared to Western Europe and the United States, treatment costs in Turkey are 30-50% lower, making the country a popular destination for medical tourism.

Approximate prices for cancer treatment in Turkey (USD):

• Initial consultation with an oncologist – $150–200;
• Complete examination (PET-CT) – $900–1200;
• Biopsy (including analysis) – $1000–1500;
• Chemotherapy course – $1500–2500;
• Targeted therapy (per cycle) – $2500–4000;
• Immunotherapy (per cycle) – $3000–6000;
• Laparoscopic oncology surgery – $8000–12000;
• Radiotherapy (per session) – $500–800;
• Gamma Knife – $8000–10000;
• Proton therapy (per course) – $25000–35000;
• MRI-guided radiotherapy (MR-Linac) – $15000–20000;
• Bone marrow transplant – $45,000–$65,000;
• Robotic surgery (Da Vinci) – $12,000–$18,000;
• Breast cancer treatment (including surgery and post-operative care) – $10,000–$15,000;
• Prostate cancer treatment (including surgery) – $9,000–$14,000.

Turkish clinics offer a wide range of innovative cancer treatments, ensuring high survival rates and improved quality of life for patients. The cost of the procedures remains affordable compared to similar services in other countries. Turkey continues to strengthen its position as a leading hub for medical tourism, welcoming tens of thousands of patients from all over the world every year.

Benefits of Cancer Treatment in Turkey

Cancer treatment in Turkey offers several advantages, including:

• Modern equipment and technology: Turkish clinics are equipped with the latest medical technologies and specialized equipment, which allows for precise diagnosis and treatment.
• Qualified specialists: Oncologists in Turkey have a high level of qualification, many of them trained in leading medical institutions in Europe and the USA.
• Affordable prices: The cost of cancer treatment in Turkey is significantly lower than in other European countries and the USA, while the quality of medical services remains high.
• Individualized approach: Each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on accurate diagnostics and the specifics of their condition.
• High survival rates: Thanks to the use of modern treatment methods and highly qualified personnel, oncology clinics in Turkey demonstrate excellent outcomes in the treatment of various types of cancer, including complex cases.

These benefits position Turkey as one of the leading destinations for cancer treatment.

Cancer Treatment in Turkey for International Patients

Turkey has established itself as a country offering high-quality oncological treatment at the level of world standards. For foreign patients, not only the medical component is important, but also the comfortable passage of all stages of treatment abroad. This is where professionals come to the rescue. MedTour provides comprehensive medical and logistical support throughout the treatment process – from the initial inquiry to the rehabilitation program.

• Consultations with doctors. MedTour organizes online consultations with leading oncologists in Turkey, so that patients can get a preliminary opinion on their condition and learn about possible treatment methods.
• Clinic and doctor selection. Taking into account the patient’s diagnosis and preferences, our coordinating physicians recommend the most suitable medical center and specialists experienced in the treatment of the specific type of cancer.
• Organization of the trip. MedTour handles all logistics issues, including booking airline tickets, finding and booking a hotel or apartment, as well as organizing transfers from the airport to the clinic.
• Interpreter services. Professional medical interpreters are available to assist international patients throughout every stage of their treatment.
• Assistance with visa and documents. MedTour provides guidance on obtaining visas and helps prepare and translate medical documents required by the clinic.
• 24/7 support. Patients can count on 24/7 support – from answering questions that arise to emergency assistance if necessary.
• Additional services. If necessary, MedTour can arrange excursions, shopping assistance, and recommendations for local infrastructure to ensure patients feel at ease far from home.

MedTour ensures that cancer treatment in Turkey is as comfortable and safe as possible for international patients, allowing them to focus on their health. With professional support and comprehensive care, patients can trust that all organizational matters will be handled efficiently and effectively.

Published: 25.11.2024

Updated: 02.12.2024

Medical author:

Ilona Baidiuk

Medical author, Medical editor:

Olena Kursabaieva

Information on this webpage verified by the medical expert

Neurosurgery

PhD. Olexandr Voznyak