The latest developments and innovations in treatments were discussed at the 52nd National Hematology Congress in Antalya.

Speaking at the press conference, Turkish Hematology Association President Dr. Özgür Mehtap drew attention to the integration of artificial intelligence in the field of medicine. Referring to the work of the Artificial Intelligence Scientific Subcommittee established within the association, Mehtap stated that artificial intelligence is nowadays mostly used as a support in risk classifications and treatment algorithms.

Stating that it is not possible for artificial intelligence to completely replace the doctor, Mehtap made important warnings about legal liability. Stating that it is possible for artificial intelligence programs to be wrong even in peripheral blood smear examinations and that they are still a support for physicians, Mehtap emphasized that if a physician makes a diagnosis, the legal and medical responsibility belongs entirely to the physician.

85 PERCENT SUCCESS IN TREATMENT

Making a statement within the scope of Children with Leukemia Week, Deputy President of the Association, Dr. Ayşegül Ünüvar stated that leukemia can be treated with high success with correct diagnosis and advanced treatment methods.

Stating that over 85 percent treatment success has been achieved, especially in certain types of leukemia, Ünüvar emphasized that, thanks to a strong health infrastructure, centers in Turkey can follow up at the same level as centers in the developed world. Stating that the treatment process is long and difficult and that they work in full cooperation with nurses, psychologists, dietitians and infectious disease specialists, Ünüvar noted that the aim is for children not only to overcome the disease but also to become healthy and productive individuals in their future lives.

DONOR IS THE MOST CRITICAL POINT

Association General Secretary Dr. Elif Birtaş Ateşoğlu touched upon cellular therapies with curative potential in hematology. Stating that in addition to stem cell transplants (autologous and allogeneic), CAR-T cell therapy has also begun to be implemented in Turkey, Ateşoğlu reminded that finding a donor is the most critical step in success and invited citizens to become stem cell donors. Stating that candidates can give up at the last stage of the donation process, Ateşoğlu pointed out that this process wears out the patients even more.

BE CAREFUL ABOUT UNCONSCIOUS IRON USE

Association Research Secretary Dr. Ahmet Emre Eşkazan drew attention to the problem of anemia, which is common in society. Anemia, which manifests itself with symptoms such as comorbidity, weakness and fatigue; He stated that it could be a sign of iron, B12 or folic acid deficiency as well as more serious bone marrow problems.

Eşkazan emphasized that it is wrong to take iron supplements directly without investigating the cause and stated that the cause of anemia must be investigated. Eşkazan stated that it is important not to seek treatment simply by increasing nutrition or using iron without testing, and that correct diagnosis is the most critical step in preventing the progression of the disease.