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A recent article has detailed how a failure to identify breast cancer led to it becoming significantly advanced by the time it was eventually diagnosed. Unfortunately, this medical negligence leaves the patients in a very delicate situation with a life changing consequence.
In the following article, we will delve into breast cancer and the importance of early detection and accurate diagnosis…
Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer diagnosed in the UK.
Statistics suggest that there are on average 150 new cases of breast cancer diagnosed every day. 18% of breast cancers diagnosed were in women under the age of 50, and a staggering 82% in women aged 50 and above.[1]
Breast cancer develops when cells in the breast divide in an uncontrolled way. Untreated breast cancer can result in the cells spreading to other areas of the body. This is known as secondary breast cancer.
Symptoms of breast cancer in women can vary but according to the National Health Service, the main symptoms include lump(s) or swelling(s) in the breast, chest or armpit. A change in skin to the breast (dimpling/redness), a change in size or shape of one or both breasts, nipple discharge or change in shape/appearance of the nipple, and pain in the breast or armpit that does not go away.[2]
The earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the less likely it is that it has become too large or has spread. Early diagnosis can be lifesaving as there is a greater chance that it can be treated successfully.
As noted above, a large proportion of breast cancers are found in women over the age of 50. The NHS Breast Screening Programme provides screening to women aged 50 or over, by offering routine mammograms.
NHS England is also encouraging all women to use a ‘TLC’ method for breast checks (Touch – can you feel anything new or unusual? Look – does anything look different? Check – with your GP if there are any new or unusual changes).[3]
Breast cancer treatments vary and are largely dependent on the specific breast cancer diagnosed and the stage reached . Treatment is tailored to a patient’s specific needs and can include mastectomy surgery (removal of the breast), breast conserving surgery (including lump removal), chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and medication (including hormone therapy).
Regular personal breast checks and awareness of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer is needed for all women, no matter their age. Investigation of symptoms at the earliest possible time will inevitably lead to a greater chance of prompt diagnosis, leading to treatment being far less invasive than if it is diagnosed at a later, and more advanced stage.
If, in the unfortunate event, you believe you have experienced a negligent delay in diagnosis of breast cancer or any other type of medical negligence, and you intend to make a claim, it is important that you seek legal advice.
It is appreciated that illnesses, such as breast cancer (particularly) at an advanced stage, can have a significant impact on your day-to-day life, ability to work and provide for yourself and your family.
Engaging with a specialist medical negligence lawyer can help you navigate your way through a claim for compensation to assist you in seeking justice for being exposed to negligent healthcare.
Our team has decades of combined experience in successfully advising and representing clients in gynaecological negligence claims.
If you would like to discuss an issue, please get in touch to arrange a free no obligation consultation. We’re available by email or phone.
If you would like to discuss an issue, please get in touch to arrange a free no obligation consultation. We’re available by email or phone.
[1] https://www.breastcanceruk.org.uk/about-breast-cancer/facts-figures-and-qas/facts-and-figures/
[2] NHS.co.uk
[3] NHS England
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Nicholson Jones Sutton Solicitors Limited is a Limited company which is UK based registration number 06945583.
Our services are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. www.sra.org.uk
Rachel has been a specialist clinical negligence and dental negligence solicitor since 2014, as well as having had a number of years pre-qualification experience in this field also. Her practice has been solely claimant based and has an empathetic approach to navigating claims.
Her experience includes running high value obstetrics claims, as well as complex bariatric and orthopaedic cases to successful conclusion.
Rachel loves to travel and spent part of her undergraduate degree studying in the United States. She is an avid reader, and particularly enjoys the classics.