Last update : 03/06/2025

Lung cancer | Diagnosis, treatment & prevention in Turkey 2025

Creator: Emily
Published: 2024-12-06T10:03:00+01:00

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Being diagnosed with lung cancer is a shattering ordeal. Between the uncertainties, the treatments to be considered and the urgent need for support, every patient deserves expert, human and comprehensive care.

In Turkey, the fight against lung cancer has taken a great leap forward, thanks to state-of-the-art medical infrastructures, highly qualified oncologists and the latest technologies. Whether you're looking for a precise diagnosis, a second opinion, or personalized treatment, you'll find solutions to meet your expectations.

Thanks to a multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach, our partner hospitals do everything in their power to improve your chances of recovery, while preserving your quality of life.

Why undergo Lung cancer treatment with Turquie Santé ?

Expert surgeons and certified hospitals

Prices 35% to 50% cheaper than in Europe

Medical stay organized from A to Z

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All about your Lung cancer treatment in Turkey

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HISAR INTERCONTINENTAL

Istanbul, Turkey

OP. Dr. Hasan Sahin

Graduate of GATA Medical School
Specialization at Izmir Dokuz Eylul University.
Specialist in aesthetic, plastic and ... Read more

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LIV Ulus

Istanbul, Turkey

Op. Dr. Mediha Tok Çevik

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MEMORIAL Şişli cheap price Lung cancer treatment 0

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MEMORIAL Şişli

Istanbul, Turkey

Dr. Gülsüm ÇEBİ

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LIV Vadistanbul

Istanbul, Turkey

Prof. Dr. Çağatay Öztürk

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NEOLIFE ONCOLOGY CENTER

Istanbul, Turkey

Dr. Nesrin Aslan

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MEMORIAL ANKARA

Ankara, Turkey

Dr. Erkan Özgün

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Istanbul, Turkey

MD Sema AYSAN KIZILDAĞ

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MEDIPOL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Istanbul, Turkey

Günseli ÖZDEMİR

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MEMORIAL Antalya

Antalya, Turkey

ALI RIZA BAŞARAN

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ACIBADEM

Istanbul, Turkey

Dr.Ender Semiz

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NP BRAIN

Istanbul, Turkey

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Barıs Metin

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Florence Nightingale

Istanbul, Turkey

Dr.Çavlan Çiftçi

4.3
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AMERICAN HOSPITAL cheap price Lung cancer treatment 0

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AMERICAN HOSPITAL

Istanbul, Turkey

Dr. Aylin Pelin Çil

3.9
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LOKMAN HEKIM Üniversitesi cheap price Lung cancer treatment 0

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LOKMAN HEKIM Üniversitesi

Ankara, Turkey

Op. Dr. Ahmet ARIK

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Forms of lung cancer

There isn't just one form of lung cancer, but several types, each with distinct characteristics, progressions, and treatments. The exact histological type of the cancer is identified through an anatomopathological examination (analyzing tumor cells under a microscope),a crucial step for offering appropriate treatment.

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

This is the most common type, accounting for about 85% of cases. It includes several subtypes:

Adenocarcinoma (most common among non-smokers)
Squamous cell carcinoma, often linked to smoking
Large cell carcinoma, rarer but more aggressive

These cancers often progress more slowly and can be treated with surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies.

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC)

Less common (about 15% of cases) but more aggressive, this type grows rapidly and quickly forms metastases.

Small cell carcinoma: characterized by very small, fast-dividing cells
Combined small cell carcinoma: a mix of small cells and other tumor types

This cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage because of its rapid growth. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are the standard treatments, but the prognosis remains poor if diagnosed late.

Although it responds well to initial treatment, small cell lung cancer frequently recurs, requiring close monitoring.

Malignant pleural mesothelioma

This rare cancer affects the pleura (the membrane surrounding the lungs) and is linked to asbestos exposure.
Symptoms usually appear late: shortness of breath, chest pain, persistent cough. Its treatment is often complex, involving multiple approaches.

Pulmonary metastases

These are not primary lung cancers but secondary tumors originating from another organ (breast, kidney, colon, etc.). Management depends on the primary cancer.

Lung cancer: Causes & risk factors

Lung cancer is one of the cancers most closely linked to the environment, particularly to inhaled substances. As the first organ directly exposed to the ambient air, the lungs are vulnerable to many carcinogenic agents present in the atmosphere, in workplaces, or through certain lifestyle habits.

Tobacco: the main risk factor

Active smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer. About 80 to 90% of bronchial cancers are linked to tobacco consumption. Smoking progressively damages respiratory cells and promotes the development of malignant tumors.

But secondhand smoke should not be overlooked. Regular exposure to cigarette smoke in living or working spaces also increases the risk, even among non-smokers.

Harmful inhalation exposure sources

Our lungs are in direct contact with ambient air. Any repeated exposure to toxic substances can therefore lead to dangerous cellular mutations. Here are the most well-known:

Smoked cannabis: Although often perceived as less dangerous, burning and inhaling cannabis releases carcinogenic substances similar to those in tobacco.
Asbestos: Inhaled as microscopic fibers, this substance significantly raises the risk, especially in occupational settings.
Radon: A naturally occurring radioactive gas, invisible and odorless, it can accumulate in poorly ventilated homes and increase cancer risk with prolonged exposure.
Air pollution: Fine particles, industrial gases, and urban smoke are pollutants associated with a rise in lung cancer cases, particularly in large cities.

Personal and genetic predispositions

Even in the absence of obvious environmental exposure, some people have a higher risk, notably due to:

Family or personal history of lung cancer.
Known hereditary genetic mutations that increase the risk of certain types of lung tumors.
Chronic lung conditions: COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease),emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or tuberculosis can also weaken the lungs.

Other contributing factors

Several other factors can also contribute to lung cancer development:

Occupational exposure to certain chemicals (arsenic, silica, tar, industrial solvents…).
Ionizing radiation, including some previous medical treatments.
Immune deficiencies, autoimmune diseases (like lupus).
Use of beta-carotene supplements in smokers, which is associated with an increased risk.
An imbalanced diet, low in fruits, vegetables, and protective antioxidants.

Diagnosis of lung cancer

The diagnosis of lung cancer relies on the analysis of tissue samples taken from the lungs. Confirmation can only be made after a biopsy, usually performed during a bronchoscopy. This examination allows for:

Identifying the type of cancer (small cell or non-small cell).
Detecting possible genetic mutations (EGFR, ALK, ROS1…).
Adapting the treatment to the tumor profile.

In cases of persistent symptoms (chronic cough, shortness of breath, hemoptysis…),a thorough respiratory evaluation is essential.

In Turkey, specialized centers partnered with Turquie Santé offer fast and accurate diagnoses, thanks to experienced teams in pulmonology, thoracic oncology, and molecular biology, with personalized support at every step of the care journey.

Lung cancer treatment options in Turkey

In Turkey, patients with lung cancer benefit from comprehensive care protocols that combine cutting-edge technology and multidisciplinary expertise. The treatment mainly depends on the type of cancer (small cell or non-small cell),its stage of progression, and the patient's overall health.

Medical treatments

For small cell cancers, oncologists typically favor a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy to slow tumor growth and reduce its size.

In cases of non-small cell lung cancer, treatments can include:

Chemotherapy: administration of drugs (e.g., cisplatin, carboplatin) that target and destroy cancer cells. Treatment cycles are usually spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart to allow the body to recover.
Radiotherapy: use of targeted radiation to destroy tumor cells in the chest area.
Targeted therapies: these treatments attack specific abnormalities in cancer cells, often identified through genetic tests.
Immunotherapy: it boosts the immune system to better recognize and fight tumor cells.

These treatments can be used alone or in combination, depending on the strategy defined by the medical team.

Surgical treatment

When the cancer is detected at an early stage, particularly in non-small cell cancers, surgery is often considered. Two main techniques are used:

Lobectomy: removal of one lobe of the lung, indicated if the tumor is localized.
Pneumonectomy: complete removal of the affected lung, often combined with lymph node removal to limit the risk of spread.

These surgeries are performed in modern operating rooms, using minimally invasive techniques (video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery) whenever possible.

Lung cancer treatment options in Turkey 2025

How to prevent lung cancer?

Lung cancer doesn't have a single cause, but rather a multitude of risk factors. Knowing these factors is already a first step toward active prevention.

Smoking cessation remains the most effective measure: smoking, even a little, significantly increases the risk. It's also important to limit exposure to secondhand smoke, especially in enclosed spaces.

Other inhaled substances can also be dangerous, such as asbestos, radon, or pollutant particles present in the air. Proper ventilation of living spaces and adherence to workplace safety standards can help reduce these risks.

A healthy lifestyle, combining a balanced diet, physical activity, and regular screenings, also strengthens prevention efforts, especially for people with a family history of lung cancer or chronic respiratory diseases.

At Turquie Santé, we help you access the best diagnostic and prevention centers in Turkey. Our internationally accredited hospital partners offer advanced screening programs, consultations with renowned pulmonologists, and personalized comprehensive care.

Complete Support in Turkey

With Turquie Santé, you gain access to a personalized care pathway, provided by specialists in thoracic oncology, pulmonary surgery, and precision medicine. Each treatment protocol is tailored to your individual situation, with close medical follow-up at every stage of your care.

Need a second opinion or a customized care plan? We connect you with specialized centers in Turkey, known for the quality of their lung cancer treatments.

Frequently asked questions

The causes of lung cancer are:

Smoking cannabis (Marijuana) or tobacco.
Exposure to radon: a colorless and inodorous gas that results from the natural decomposition of uranium.
Exposure to asbestos: minerals resembling very fine fibers, used in plumbing, cement manufacturing, and in electricity.
Exposure to certain chemicals such as Arsenic, Silica powder, Cobalt and to nuclear radiation.
Genetic factors, air pollution...

The symptoms of lung cancer are:

Cough, with shortness of breath and chest pain
Coughing up mucus tinted with blood
High-pitched whistling sound emitted on exhalation (wheezing)
Dysphonia (alteration of the voice)
Difficulty swallowing
Swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck or above the collarbone

The diagnosis of lung cancer in Turkey involves:

The questioning
Clinical examination
Imaging: radio and scanner (computed tomography)
Bronchoscopy
Biopsy
Assessment of the stage of the disease (additional examinations to check if other organs are affected).

Several types of lung cancer treatments exist, which are:

Surgery
Chemotherapy
Radiotherapy
Targeted therapies
Immunotherapy

These procedures can be employed alone or in combination.

Written by

The accuracy of the content has been reviewed by Emily, former manager of private hospitals in Turkey, with proven scientific knowledge from over 10 years in research, she has the ability to simplify complex medical data to make it accessible to all.