Compensation for the Effects of Delayed Breast Cancer Treatment
A delay in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can have a dramatic impact on the life of the woman affected. If medical professionals are responsible for the delay, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Cancer treatment in the UK
In a broad context, the NHS is showing signs of struggling to meet its government-set targets for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients. Earlier this year, statistics showed that over 70% of cancer services were failing to meet the target that 85% of patients should move from referral to first treatment for cancer within 62 days. More recent research has shown that 25% of cancer patients suffer an avoidable delay in the diagnosis process.
With regard to breast cancer specifically, statistics show that, although the survival rates for this form of cancer have improved in the UK over the last few decades, five-year survival rates from breast cancer in the UK are still lower than the average in Europe.
Delaying diagnosis of breast cancer
A delay in diagnosing breast cancer can have a devastating impact on the woman affected:
- The likelihood of survival may be reduced
- The likelihood of a recurrence of breast cancer may be increased
- The need for surgery or a mastectomy may be increased
- The need for chemotherapy or the duration of treatment may be increased.
All of the above possible outcomes can cause both psychological as well as physical damage to the woman affected and have an impact on both her quality of life as well as that of her family.
What causes delays in breast cancer diagnosis?
- A failure in examination
- A misinterpretation of a breast scan or x-ray
- A failure to arrange a biopsy when appropriate
At a simpler level, delays can also be caused by a shortage of skilled staff, the shortage of necessary facilities and increasing demands on the services available.
However, if a woman has suffered a significant long-term impact due to her diagnosis delay, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for her pain, suffering and financial losses associated with the delay.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are struggling due to the effect of a delay in diagnosing and treating breast cancer, contact Glynns today to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
It might be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
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