The Transformation of Cancer Control Policies in Türkiye: A Comparative Analysis of the National Cancer Control Plan (2013–2018) and the 2021 Cancer Control Program from a Strategic Management Perspective
Tuğba Damgacı11Department of Aviation Management, School of Civil Aviation, Selçuk University, Konya, Türkiye
Objectives: This study aims to analyze the strategic transformation of cancer control policies in Türkiye within the framework of the National Cancer Control Plan (2013–2018) and the 2021 National Cancer Control Program. Methods: In the study, document analysis, one of the qualitative research designs, was used; the obtained data were analyzed through thematic content analysis. In this context, the relevant policy documents were systematically examined, and their contents were coded and evaluated through four main dimensions of analysis: strategic objectives, policy instruments, implementation capacity, and governance approach. Results: The findings obtained show that cancer policies in Türkiye have undergone a significant structural transformation over time. In particular, it is seen that the policy approach has evolved from a structure based solely on treatment and service delivery into a holistic model including prevention, early diagnosis, data production, and system integration. It was determined that policy instruments have diversified so as to encompass digital data systems, international collaborations, and multisectoral interventions, and that implementation capacity has strengthened in terms of institutionalization, data quality, and international integration. At the same time, it was determined that the understanding of governance has transformed from a centralized and program-based structure into a multi-actor and multi-level governance model based on data-driven decision-making processes. However, the results of the analysis also reveal that some structural problems continue, such as the insufficiently clear definition of coordination mechanisms, the limited governance dimension in the field of tertiary prevention, and the relatively weak level of social participation. Conclusion: As a result, this study reveals that cancer policies in Türkiye have evolved into a holistic and institutionalized structure in line with the strategic management perspective and contributes to the public administration literature. Keywords: Cancer control programs, governance, health policies, public administration, strategic management
Cite This Article
Damgacı T. The Transformation of Cancer Control Policies in Türkiye: A Comparative Analysis of the National Cancer Control Plan (2013–2018) and the 2021 Cancer Control Program from a Strategic Management Perspective. EJMI. 2026; 10(3): 319-336
Corresponding Author: Tuğba Damgacı