The symptoms of cancer may vary depending on its location and spread. The most common symptoms include unexplained weakness, fatigue, weight loss, palpable swelling, pain, fever, cough, or bleeding. Sometimes even itching can be a symptom of cancer; a doctor should definitely be consulted for any persistent and unexplained complaints. Increasing our physical and mental awareness and perception will help us detect symptoms earlier.

We generally diagnose cancer with a biopsy taken from the suspicious area. However, in cases where a biopsy cannot be taken, or to determine where to take the biopsy, blood tests, and imaging methods (computed tomography (CT), MRI, and PET-CT) may need to be applied before the biopsy. Based on the results of these tests, experts determine the type and stage of cancer and create the appropriate treatment plan.

Cancer is a chronic disease, just like diabetes and heart disease. Just as we think that the treatment process has begun and our lifestyle will change when diagnosed with diabetes or heart disease, the idea that we will die should not be the only thing that comes to mind when diagnosed with cancer. What we should focus on when diagnosed is not death and saying goodbye, but rather finding the best possible treatment and organizing ourselves during this process. Please keep this in mind and be hopeful; today, we can treat many types of cancer or at least turn it into a chronic disease and extend the life of people who have it. This is a disease, and like all diseases, it requires a treatment process. For this reason, our first recommendation to our patients diagnosed with or suspected of having cancer is to understand that the treatment in question can be a long process and to choose an environment where they can feel comfortable and safe as a place for struggle and living during this process. Immediately afterward, they should choose an expert team that is well-versed, technically and medically equipped, and can support them in every aspect as their companion.

Cancer treatment varies depending on the patient’s cancer type, stage, and general health condition. Among the treatment options are local treatments such as surgery and radiotherapy or, especially in the presence of more advanced cancer, systemic treatments such as chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy. The treatment plan should be made by a multidisciplinary team, according to the characteristics of the patient and the tumor, and should be personalized.

It varies depending on the treatment method applied and the general condition of the patient. While the side effects of local treatment methods such as radiotherapy or surgery are expected at the site where they are applied, the side effects of chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies (smart drugs) are systemic, meaning they affect the whole body. However, modern treatment techniques and supportive therapies can reduce the frequency and severity of possible side effects.

• Our clinic provides a range of services including:
  Preventive Health Services: For individuals looking to avoid cancer and benefit from preventative health measures.
• Personalized Oncological Treatments: For those seeking tailored cancer treatments under the expert management and supervision of Prof. Dr. Berrin Pehlivan.
• Complementary Treatments: For patients currently undergoing oncological treatments elsewhere who wish to enhance the effectiveness of their treatments and manage side effects.
• Quality of Life Improvement: For individuals who want to improve their quality of life post-treatment and address factors leading to cancer.

Click here to learn more about the treatment services in our clinic.

We offer support and complementary treatments in our clinic with an integrative approach, collaborating with a dietitian, psychologist/psychiatrist, and physiotherapist. While radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and similar treatments are carried out in a hospital setting under the direct coordination and supervision of Prof. Dr. Berrin Pehlivan, our clinic focuses on integrative support.

Yes, patient admissions can be arranged under the scope of SGK.

You can obtain information about examination fees from our finance unit. Once the doctor has determined the necessary treatment process, our planning unit will present a detailed cost breakdown to the patient.

Cancer is an immunogenic disease, meaning it is closely related to your immune system. Your immune system influences both your response to treatments and the disease’s progression. It is crucial to understand that supporting the immune system of cancer patients differs from what is recommended for healthy individuals. Be cautious with herbal products, as they may reduce treatment effectiveness or cause additional side effects. Support from dietitians, psychologists, and physiotherapists, along with appropriate vitamin supplements and microbiota analyses, can maximize the benefits of your treatments and improve your quality of life. Our clinic is here to provide support in these areas.

Post-treatment follow-up includes regular physician check-ups to assess treatment effectiveness and monitor potential side effects. These check-ups typically involve physical examinations, imaging tests, and/or blood tests. Generally, check-ups should occur every 3 months for the first 2 years after treatment, every 6 months for the next 3 years, and annually after five years.

If any concerns arise between scheduled check-ups, the frequency may be increased. It’s important to remember that cancer is only 5-15% hereditary, with 85-90% related to lifestyle factors. Continuing the same unhealthy habits or high levels of stress after treatment may increase the risk of recurrence, so seeking guidance from oncologists is crucial.