Women of Bornova Come Together at Breast Cancer Awareness Panel

Bornova Municipality drew attention to women’s health with a special panel organized as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Held at the Yeşilova Mound Visitor Center with the participation of medical experts, the event highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and delivered a clear message: “Cancer does not mean death. Together, we will break this misconception.”

The “Breast Cancer Awareness Panel,” organized in cooperation with Bornova Municipality and Ata Health Hospital, took place at the Yeşilova Mound Visitor Center with strong attendance. The panel addressed a range of vital topics, from breast cancer and cervical cancer to early detection methods and the psychological aspects of the disease.

“We Must Not Neglect Our Health”

In her opening remarks, Bornova Deputy Mayor Duygu Bölük emphasized that health should not be pushed into the background amid the demands of everyday life. Speaking about the municipality’s “Health Card” program, Bölük said:

“We all get caught up in our daily routines and neglect our health. As Bornova Municipality, we are working to prevent this and combat these life-threatening diseases through early awareness.”

She added that the municipality would continue its support for public health.

“One in Every Eight Women Is at Risk”

General Surgeon Op. Dr. Utku Tantoğlu reminded participants that breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among women and shared some striking statistics. Stating that one in every eight women develops the disease, Tantoğlu said:

“When the tumor is no larger than 2 centimeters and has not spread to the lymph nodes in the armpit—in other words, when it is detected at Stage 1—it can be treated much more easily. That is why we must never neglect regular check-ups. Women over the age of 40 should have an examination once a year and a mammogram every two years. Women under 40 should also consult a general surgeon.”

Tantoğlu also highlighted the importance of breast self-examination, noting that it can help women detect potential signs of cancer much earlier.

“Do Not Neglect HPV Vaccination and Screening Tests”

Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist Op. Dr. Onur Süleyman Aldemir emphasized the prevalence of cervical cancer and the HPV virus. Noting that HPV positivity rates are particularly high among people aged 18–24, Aldemir said:

“Do not be afraid. Make sure you have an HPV screening test, which takes just two minutes. In addition, all children—girls and boys alike—should receive the three-dose HPV vaccine starting at the age of nine. It may be costly, but nothing is more important than your health and your life. Do not neglect these precautions. Stay away from smoking and choose a safe sex life.”

“Cancer Does Not Mean Death”

Psychologist Beyza Sessiz explained that the cancer journey has not only physical but also psychological, social, and economic dimensions. She emphasized that caregivers, as well as patients, need psychological support. Noting that patients’ relatives can also experience intense anxiety, including fear of death and panic, during the process, Sessiz said:

“Cancer is not a contagious disease, but its psychological effects can spread to those around the patient. Most importantly, cancer does not mean death. We are here to break this false equation and misconception in society.”