Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University (BEUN) continues its “Science Café” events bringing the knowledge and experience of academia directly to society. The event, organized at Kozlu Public Education Center as part of “Breast Cancer Awareness Month, October 1–31”, aimed to raise awareness about breast cancer.
The event was moderated by Lecturer Yağmur Atalay, Head of the BEUN Science Communication Office, and featured Prof. Dr. Güldeniz Karadeniz Çakmak, Head of the Department of General Surgery at the BEUN Faculty of Medicine, and Prof. Dr. Ayşe Semra Demir, Head of the Department of Family Medicine and Deputy Chief Physician, as speakers. The talk was organized to raise public awareness of breast cancer, emphasize the vital importance of early diagnosis, and promote accurate health information. The diagnosis and treatment processes of the disease were discussed in all aspects.
“Annual Check-ups Should Not Be Neglected: Early Diagnosis Saves Lives”
Taking the floor first, Prof. Dr. Ayşe Semra Demir, Head of the Department of Family Medicine and Deputy Chief Physician, emphasized that women should actively benefit from primary healthcare services. Underlining the vital importance of every woman consulting her family physician for periodic health screenings, Prof. Dr. Demir stated that preventive healthcare services are the first and strongest line of defense in the fight against cancer.
“It Also Occurs in Men; Early Diagnosis Shortens the Treatment Process”
Prof. Dr. Güldeniz Karadeniz Çakmak, Head of the Department of General Surgery, highlighted the role of early diagnosis in treatment success. Stating that women should not neglect regular mammograms and breast self-examinations, Prof. Dr. Çakmak also drew attention to a critical fact that is not widely known among the public: “Contrary to popular belief, breast cancer, although rare, also occurs in men. Unfortunately, cases in men tend to be more aggressive and carry greater risks in terms of their course.”
Noting that delays in consulting a doctor prolong the treatment process and may lead to unfavorable outcomes, Çakmak stated that lifestyle habits such as healthy eating, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and alcohol significantly reduce the risk of cancer. It was also emphasized that individuals in the genetic risk group with a family history of cancer should be much more careful about screening processes.
Do Biopsies and Mammograms Spread Cancer? Experts Provide Scientific Answers to Common Myths
During the question-and-answer session, participants asked the experts about misinformation that spreads by word of mouth and delays treatment. In particular, addressing the question, “Can having a biopsy or mammogram cause cancer to spread?”, Prof. Dr. Güldeniz Karadeniz Çakmak emphasized that neither biopsies nor mammograms cause the disease to spread. Stating that these procedures do not lead to such an outcome, Çakmak explained that, on the contrary, they are among the most reliable medical methods for making an accurate diagnosis and determining the right course of treatment.
No Room for Misinformation on Social Media: “Trust Your Doctor, Not Disinformation”
Warning against false information circulating on the internet and social media about cancer diagnosis and treatment, Prof. Dr. Karadeniz Çakmak and Prof. Dr. Ayşe Semra Demir stated that misinformation and disinformation mislead patients and cause them to miss opportunities for early diagnosis. Addressing the participants, Çakmak and Demir said: “When you wonder whether you might have cancer, do not rely on hearsay or unscientific information on social media. Unfortunately, disinformation is very common in healthcare. Do not pay attention to these misconceptions and misinformation; consult your doctors and official healthcare institutions directly.”
“Do Not Fall into the Trap of Alternative Medicine: Follow Medical Science and Your Doctors’ Advice”
Answering questions about non-medical approaches sought by cancer patients and the use of products of unknown origin, Prof. Dr. Çakmak and Prof. Dr. Demir issued important warnings. Reminding participants that products used without medical supervision and practices presented under the name of alternative medicine may disrupt treatment and cause irreversible harm, the experts emphasized that patients should not go beyond scientifically accepted medical methods. They stated that healthy eating and lifestyle practices followed under a physician’s guidance are the best ways to support the treatment process. They also reminded participants that the Ministry of Health’s official website provides a reliable source of information through its guide titled “Early Diagnosis Saves Lives – Get Your Breast Cancer Screening”.
The Program Ended with Applause
The expert academics stated that they were very pleased to contribute to the awareness campaign carried out throughout October and thanked the Kozlu Public Education Center family for their hospitality and the BEUN family for organizing this event, which brings science and society together.
The program ended with Kozlu Public Education Center Director Fatma Günaydın presenting certificates of appreciation to the speakers, followed by a commemorative photo with the participants.
