Mehmet Haberal

Turkish surgeon and politician

Mehmet Haberal

Mehmet Haberal (born 29 October 1944) is a prominent Turkish surgeon and politician, renowned for his pioneering work in the field of organ transplantation. He is the founder of the Başkent University in Ankara, Turkey, and has made significant contributions to medical education and healthcare in Turkey and internationally.

Early Life and Education

Mehmet Haberal was born in Pazar, Rize, Turkey. He completed his primary and secondary education in various cities across Turkey due to his father's occupation as a civil servant. Haberal graduated from Ankara University Faculty of Medicine in 1967. He then pursued his specialization in general surgery at the same institution.

Medical Career

Organ Transplantation

Haberal is best known for his work in organ transplantation. In 1975, he performed the first successful kidney transplant in Turkey using a living donor. This groundbreaking operation marked the beginning of modern organ transplantation in the country. In 1978, he performed the first cadaveric kidney transplant in Turkey.

In 1988, Haberal achieved another milestone by performing the first successful liver transplant in Turkey. His work in this field has not only advanced medical practice in Turkey but has also contributed to global knowledge and techniques in organ transplantation.

Başkent University

In 1993, Haberal founded Başkent University, which has become one of the leading institutions for medical education and healthcare in Turkey. The university includes a network of hospitals and research centers, providing comprehensive healthcare services and conducting cutting-edge medical research.

Political Career

In addition to his medical career, Haberal has been active in Turkish politics. He was elected as a member of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey in 2011, representing the Republican People's Party. His political career has been marked by his advocacy for healthcare reform and education.

Legal Issues

Haberal was arrested in 2009 as part of the Ergenekon trials, a series of high-profile trials in Turkey. He was accused of being involved in an alleged coup plot against the government. After spending several years in detention, he was acquitted of all charges in 2014.

Awards and Recognition

Haberal has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to medicine and education. He is a member of several international medical societies and has been recognized for his work in organ transplantation and medical education.

Personal Life

Mehmet Haberal is married and has two children. He continues to be active in both his medical and political careers, contributing to the advancement of healthcare and education in Turkey.

Surgical procedure

Related Pages

• Organ transplantation
• Kidney transplant
• Liver transplant
• Başkent University
• Republican People's Party (Turkey)