Cancer Care for Refugees in Türkiye: Challenges and Achievements

Abstract

Objectives

In Türkiye, which hosts over 3.6 million Syrian refugees seeking safety and stability, reducing inequalities in access to adequate cancer care is pivotal and multifaceted. This study aims to critically discuss cancer care provided for refugees in Türkiye, focusing on the barriers they face, and the progress in addressing these challenges.

Method

This discussion paper employs an environmental scan approach. Literature searches in both English and Turkish were conducted using databases Web of Science, PubMed, TR Dizin, and MEDLINE, focusing on keywords such as “refugees,” “cancer care,” and “immigrants.” Policy documents and regulations related to refugee health in Türkiye were also reviewed. The analysis incorporated information from official websites and online resources, including the Turkish Ministry of Health (MoH), Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM), World Health Organization (WHO)United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), United Nations Development Program (UNDP), and reports from the EU-funded SIHHAT Project. The Conceptual Framework for Health Service Use was utilized to structure the reporting and analysis of the literature, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of access to cancer care among refugees.

Results

Findings reveal multiple factors influence refugees' access to cancer care in Türkiye. Predisposing factors, such as language barriers, limited health literacy, and cultural beliefs about cancer, impact refugees’ willingness and ability to seek timely care. Enabling factors, including legal status, economic constraints, and availability of refugee-specific health services, significantly shape their access to diagnosis and treatment. Although policy reforms and community-based interventions aim to improve cancer care accessibility, need-based factors, such as delays in diagnosis and inadequate continuity of care, continue to hinder optimal healthcare utilization.

Conclusion

To ensure more inclusive cancer care, future strategies should focus on improving healthcare system navigation, strengthening financial and structural support, and enhancing the cultural competence of healthcare professionals. A comprehensive and sustainable approach is needed to bridge gaps and promote equitable cancer care access for all refugee populations.

Implications for Nursing Practice

Nurses are crucial in improving cancer care for refugees by providing culturally sensitive education, enhancing communication between patients and healthcare providers, and advocating for health policies that address refugees’ specific needs. Strengthening the role of nurses in multidisciplinary teams will further enhance the delivery of holistic and patient-centered cancer care for refugees.