Dietician Visit Leads to Early Breast Cancer Detection in Turkey
Translated from Turkish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- A woman in Turkey discovered she had early-stage breast cancer after visiting a health center for a dietician appointment.
- Dr. Büşra Kaba recommended a mammogram, leading to the diagnosis of stage 1 breast cancer.
- The patient, Yasemin Çelik, emphasizes the importance of early detection and encourages others to undergo screenings.
In a powerful testament to the adage 'early detection saves lives,' Yasemin Çelik's routine visit to the Osmangazi Healthy Life Center for a dietician consultation led to the life-altering discovery of early-stage breast cancer. It was Dr. Büşra Kaba's proactive recommendation for a mammogram, prompted by Yasemin's age, that initiated the crucial screening process.
Dr. Kaba, the head physician at the Osmangazi Healthy Life Center, recounted how Yasemin initially came in for dietary advice. Upon inquiring about her cancer screening history, Dr. Kaba offered to refer her to KETEM, Turkey's early cancer detection and screening centers. This referral proved to be a pivotal moment, as the subsequent mammogram revealed stage 1 breast cancer.
Büşra Teacher recommended I get a mammogram. When the results came out at that time, I was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer. My treatment is ongoing. I am very grateful to the KETEM staff and the Healthy Life Center staff. If they hadn't referred me, I might be experiencing a very different situation right now. Early detection truly saves lives. I recommend everyone to come and get their screenings at KETEM without fear. Thank you all.
Yasemin Çelik, who is currently undergoing treatment, expressed profound gratitude to both Dr. Kaba and the KETEM staff. She shared, "If they hadn't referred me, I might be experiencing a very different situation right now. Early detection truly saves lives." Her message is a clear call to action: "Don't say 'I don't have time' or 'I have no complaints.'" She urges everyone to overcome any hesitation and get screened at KETEM, emphasizing that the process is not time-consuming and can make a life-saving difference.
Dr. Kaba echoed this sentiment, stressing that cancer screenings do not require a significant time commitment but can yield life-saving results. She encouraged individuals to visit their nearest Healthy Life Centers or KETEM facilities for regular check-ups. This narrative, highlighted by Cumhuriyet, a publication known for its commitment to public health awareness, serves as a vital reminder of the importance of preventative healthcare and the critical role of healthcare professionals in advocating for their patients' well-being.
Our patient applied to our Healthy Life Center for a dietician appointment. When we asked if she had undergone cancer screenings, we informed her that we could refer her to KETEM. Our patient applied to KETEM, and early-stage cancer was detected. Don't neglect your cancer screenings by saying 'I have no complaints' or 'I don't have time.' It doesn't take much of your time. Early detection of cancer truly saves lives. You can also get your screenings by applying to the nearest Healthy Life Centers and KETEMs.
Originally published by Cumhuriyet in Turkish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.