Cancer literacy is not just about finding information on cancer; it is the ability to understand it, evaluate it critically, and take action accordingly.
Barriers to information and gaps in literacy levels narrow the decision-making space for patients, caregivers, and at-risk individuals, while further deepening existing inequalities throughout the process from diagnosis to treatment.
Launched across Europe, October 14 Cancer Literacy Day aims to increase access to evidence-based information, improve early diagnosis, transform policies, and, most importantly, combat misinformation and disinformation about cancer.
Cancer Literacy in Türkiye
Studies on cancer literacy in Türkiye predominantly focus on individual behaviors, decision-making moments, and personal responsibilities. In the shadow of quantitative research reduced to mere numbers, the social determinants of health—such as lived experiences, shortcomings in healthcare services, the comprehensiveness of social security, disparities based on gender and sexual orientation, and access to information—are rendered invisible.
The production of scientific knowledge remains trapped within narrow boundaries and the pages of academic journals. In the media, translated texts taken out of context and misinformation are rampant. This widening gap between those who produce knowledge and those who need it most is filled by peddlers of false hope, who exploit patients and their families both emotionally and financially. Questions left unasked to physicians during medical visits are surrendered to the SEO campaigns of private healthcare providers or the race for social media engagement.
The picture is clear: we cannot place the burden of responsibility solely on the shoulders of individuals. We must address the information ecosystem right at the heart of daily life through a holistic approach, and expand efforts to ensure equitable access to evidence-based information.
What Does CancerDisinfo Do?
A year ago, we set out to verify cancer-related information, advocate for information integrity, and protect public health through accessible, evidence-based content. Over the past year, we have pursued multidimensional work—ranging from health literacy trainings with neighborhood headmen (muhtars) to joint workshops with local governments, and from producing evidence-based knowledge with academia to running advocacy efforts with civil society. We created content that investigates misleading claims, makes scientific developments easy to understand, and helps people build a safer relationship with health information.
On the occasion of our very first October 14 Cancer Literacy Day, we reaffirm our motivation and commitment: to make cancer information accessible, fair, and reliable for everyone, we will continue to produce together and champion an approach where no one feels alone in the face of disease.
Murad Karabulut 
CancerDisinfo