Esophageal cancer is a serious condition that is characterised by the uncontrollable growth of abnormal cells in the lining of the esophagus. There are two main types of this cancer, namely Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Adenocarcinoma. While Squamous Cell Carcinoma tends to develop in the upper or middle esophagus, it is linked with habits like smoking and alcohol use. Adenocarcinoma is a lower esophageal reflux disease that develops in the esophagus and is linked with obesity. Since these cells can multiply uncontrollably and form a tumour, they can also potentially invade the surrounding tissues and spread to other organs.
There are a number of options for esophageal cancer treatment in Turkey that can be tailored to each patient's needs. Unlike countries such as the USA, UK, or Australia, where patients face long wait times before starting treatment, Turkey’s advanced medical facilities are known for their efficiency and shorter waiting periods. In many cases, patients can access treatment shortly after their initial consultation.
On the other hand, the cost of esophageal cancer surgery in Turkey is as low as $8,100 to $9,600. This is one of the leading factors that makes Turkey stand out from the rest of the first-world countries. While Western nations are equally equipped with modern medical technologies, Turkey provides the same quality treatment utilising the latest technologies but within your budget. This page will be your guide to everything related to esophageal cancer treatment in Turkey.
Difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, discomfort, and strain are some of the indicators of esophageal cancer. It is essential to get diagnosed as early as possible to enhance the possible treatment options. This is why you need to understand the symptoms of this disease to make an informed decision regarding your entire treatment process.
Unfortunately, many people tend to ignore the early signs of esophageal cancer as a minor or unrelated problem. During the early stages, the symptoms usually remain undetectable and gradually lead to pain and discomfort. Here are some of the indications that you might need esophageal cancer treatment:
If the symptoms mentioned above persist or worsen, you should seek immediate medical attention. Consult an esophageal cancer specialist as soon as possible for early diagnosis and timely medical intervention.
Once your esophageal cancer doctor suspects the cancer, they will run some diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of the cancer, identify its type and stage, and decide the best treatment plan.
There are a variety of treatment options for Esophageal cancer treatment in Turkey. Depending on your age, overall health, diagnostic reports, and medical history, your care team will determine the right course of treatment for your condition. Here are the best treatment options for esophageal cancer treatment in Turkey:
Esophagectomy is one of the most common surgical procedures that involves removing a portion or the entire esophagus, depending on the stage and location of the cancer. While the traditional approach in this treatment consists of making a large incision to access the esophagus directly, the minimally invasive one employs smaller incisions and specialised robotic instruments that ensure enhanced precision.
Endoscopic resection is another surgical method where the cancerous tissue is removed with the help of an endoscope. This method is suitable for early-stage esophageal cancer treatment. It is less invasive than traditional surgical methods and allows shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, and less scarring. The treatment is performed under sedation and hence, a patient experiences less post-operative pain after the surgery.
Palliative procedures are effective when cancer is at an advanced stage and curative surgery is not possible. However, this surgery is performed chiefly to alleviate the debilitating symptoms and improve the quality of life. It cannot cure the disease. Examples include a surgeon inserting a stent or creating a bypass during the procedure to allow food to pass through more easily or travel directly to the stomach. This can help patients eat more comfortably and reduce pain or obstruction-related issues.
Radiation therapy is a standard method for treating cancer, which involves using targeted high doses of radiation to destroy the cancerous cells. This treatment approach is typically utilised before or after an esophageal cancer surgery to reduce the chances of cancer recurrence.
Chemotherapy is one of the standard cancer treatments that uses powerful drugs to destroy fast-growing cancer cells. While it can be used as a single procedure to kill the cancerous cells, most esophageal cancer specialists recommend using it before surgery to shrink the tumour or after an operation to eliminate remaining cancer cells.
Immunotherapy is a treatment method that leverages your body’s immune system to fight the fast-growing cancerous cells.
Turkey has an impressive oesophageal cancer treatment success rate, and hence, you can rely on their treatment procedure and post-operative care for promising health results. While recovery can be challenging after the treatment, most patients typically spend 7 to 12 days in the hospital following surgery. During this time, your healthcare providers will monitor your vital signs, manage pain, and assess for any signs of discomfort like infection or bleeding.
As you recover, you’ll be required to perform breathing exercises to help prevent pneumonia. It is important to attend all follow-up appointments, during which your doctor will evaluate your progress and response to the treatment. These check-ups are important for adjusting medications if necessary and monitoring for any signs of cancer recurrence.
Turkish medical institutions are recognised as some of the best esophageal cancer treatment hospitals, providing a variety of treatments for oncological pathologies. Apart from the impressive esophageal cancer treatment success rate in Turkey, here are some factors to look forward to if you are travelling to Turkey for esophageal cancer treatment:
When it comes to life-saving procedures like esophageal cancer treatment, patients need high-quality care that is both effective and affordable. Turkey has become a top country for international patients, offering advanced oncology services performed by experienced specialists without the high costs found in many Western countries.
Thanks to Turkey’s lower cost of living, reduced operational expenses, and strong governmental support for the healthcare tourism industry, the cost of esophageal cancer treatment is significantly more affordable compared to countries like the UK, USA, or Australia.
For example, the average cost of esophageal cancer surgery in Turkey ranges between €7,500 and €10,500, while the same treatment can cost upwards of around €25,000 to €40,000 in countries like the UK or the US. This translates to a cost saving of up to 60%-75%, without compromising on medical standards or patient safety.
Along with availing world-class care, patients also experience the beauty and cultural richness of Turkey, making recovery not just about healing but also about finding comfort in a scenic environment.
| Country | Esophageal Cancer Treatment Cost |
|---|---|
| Turkey | €7,500 - €10,500 |
| Europe | €25,000 - €40,000 |
| UK | €30,000 - €35,000 |
| USA | €40,000 - €90,000 |
For international patients needing esophageal cancer treatment in Istanbul, availing a medical visa is an important step. To support patients through this process, agencies like CureTurkey offer comprehensive visa assistance, guiding you through each stage of the application.
Here are key points to keep in mind when applying for a Turkey medical visa:
Many citizens from European countries do not need a visa for short stays. According to the European Economic Area regulations, some travellers can stay in Turkey for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without requiring a visa. Others may be eligible to obtain a visa on arrival, depending on their nationality.
As Turkey’s largest and most vibrant city, Istanbul is not only a hub for the best quality medical care but also a country full of history, culture, and breathtaking beauty. For patients travelling for esophageal cancer treatment in Turkey, the city helps combine recovery with moments of exploration and relaxation. From ancient landmarks to lively markets, Istanbul has everything, whether you’re taking short walks between appointments or enjoying quiet sightseeing during recovery.
Here are some must-see places in Istanbul you may want to explore during your esophageal cancer treatment in Turkey:
If you're unsure where to begin, don't worry; once you arrive in Istanbul for your esophageal cancer treatment, you’ll have time to plan your ideal itinerary based on your energy levels and medical schedule. Whether it’s a peaceful visit to a mosque or a scenic Bosphorus view from your hospital window, Istanbul offers comfort, culture, and care all in one place.
Biruni Hospital 
