Early Diagnosis and Awareness in the Fight Against Cancer

Assist. Prof. Dr. Handan Doğan, a faculty member at the Faculty of Medicine at Cyprus International University, highlighted the decisive role of early diagnosis, healthy lifestyle habits, and public awareness in combating cancer in a statement made in scope of Cancer Awareness Week (April 1–7). Pointing out that cancer is a major public health issue affecting not only individuals but society as a whole, Doğan stated that more effective outcomes in the fight against cancer can be achieved as a result of scientific advancements and increased awareness.

Referring to the rise in observed cases in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Doğan emphasized the critical importance of raising awareness among young people. She noted that university students play a key role in this process due to their access to information and their potential to disseminate it. She stressed that individual awareness forms the foundation of societal transformation. Doğan also underlined that avoiding smoking, maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and protecting oneself from the sun are effective in reducing cancer risk, and highlighted the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle from an early age.

Addressing the importance of early diagnosis, Doğan stated: “The most effective approach in the fight against cancer is detecting the disease at an early stage. Regular health check-ups and screening programs enable diagnosis before symptoms appear, thereby increasing the success of treatment.”

She also discussed screening methods, noting that mammography after the age of 40 for breast cancer, smear and HPV tests for cervical cancer, screenings after the age of 50 for colorectal cancer, and tests for lung and prostate cancer in at-risk individuals serve as important guides for early detection. She further emphasized the importance of regularly monitoring changes in the skin. Doğan added that, for early diagnosis, the first and most appropriate step is to consult local healthcare institutions.

Emphasizing that the fight against cancer is not limited to clinical processes alone, Doğan stated:
“Psychosocial support, empathy, and public awareness are integral parts of the treatment process. At this point, all stakeholders—especially universities—have important responsibilities.”
Highlighting that increasing public awareness will improve early diagnosis rates, Doğan concluded that ongoing awareness efforts will make significant long-term contributions to public health.