Continuing its activities aimed at increasing social awareness, Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University (BEUN) once again carried out an important program within the framework of its “Science Café” meetings. The event, titled “5 Questions 5 Answers from a Medical Oncology Perspective: Understanding and Preventing Cancer,” was organized by the BEUN Office of Science Communication and held at the Zonguldak Governorship.
In line with the decisions and incentives of the Council of Higher Education (YÖK), the BEUN Office of Science Communication which was established through the initiatives of BEUN Rector İsmail Hakkı Özölçe, organized the program titled “Medical Oncology Perspective: Understanding and Preventing Cancer” as part of the “5 Questions–5 Answers Science Talks” series at the Zonguldak Governorship.
The program was moderated by BEUN Assistant Coordinator of Corporate Communication Office and Head of the BEUN Office of Science Communication, Asst. Prof. Dr. Melek Toparlak Şahin, while the guest speaker was Medical Oncology Specialist Dr. İrfan Karahan from BEUN Hospital. The event attracted a large number of participants.
During the program, Dr. İrfan Karahan shared comprehensive information about the formation process and stages of cancer, emphasizing that the disease should not only be considered from a physical perspective but also from a psychological one. He noted that feelings such as anxiety, stress, and uncertainty are common among individuals diagnosed with cancer and highlighted the importance of psychosocial support for both patients and their relatives during this process.
Addressing the main treatment methods used in cancer care, Karahan stated that surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy are the three most common approaches. He emphasized that treatment plans are tailored to each patient through a multidisciplinary approach. Noting that each method has its own effects and side effects, Karahan stated that in oncology, the “benefit-risk balance” is carefully considered to determine the most effective treatment option.
Highlighting the vital importance of early diagnosis, Karahan stated that early screening is life-saving, especially in breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers. He also emphasized that cervical cancer screenings in women should not be neglected, adding that thyroid cancer is more commonly seen in young women, while testicular cancer is more frequent among young men.
Karahan pointed out that the incidence of cancer is not solely dependent on genetic factors, but that environmental influences and lifestyle also play a significant role. He emphasized that smoking is the leading risk factor for lung cancer and that the vast majority of lung cancer cases are associated with smoking. However, he also noted that new-generation smart drugs have shown promising results in cases not related to smoking.
Addressing common misconceptions about nutrition, Karahan stated that consuming natural fruits does not stop the spread of cancer and that merely cutting sugar does not prevent it. He stressed the importance of consulting medical professionals rather than relying on hearsay and highlighted the need for professionally guided nutritional planning.
Warning against scientifically unproven treatment methods circulating on social media, Karahan stated that for a treatment to be considered valid, it must be tested on large patient groups, have a high success rate, and be scientifically proven. He emphasized that treatments approved by the Ministry of Health are reliable, while noting that there is insufficient scientific evidence regarding herbal treatments. He also warned that unnecessary use of vitamins and supplements may be harmful and, in some cases, may even benefit cancer cells.
Touching upon healthcare policies in Türkiye, Karahan stated that although cancer treatments are costly, state support is quite strong and many medications are covered under reimbursement, providing a significant advantage for patients.
The program also addressed the role of the immune system in fighting cancer, noting that the body constantly produces abnormal cells, but the immune system often eliminates them. In this context, immunotherapy methods, which strengthen the immune system, were highlighted as playing a crucial role in cancer treatment.
The program also discussed care processes for advanced-stage cancer patients, emphasizing the importance of palliative care units and rehabilitation centers. Karahan stated that significant progress has been made in these areas in recent years and that their primary goal is to improve patients’ quality of life.
The well-attended program concluded after answering participants’ questions.
