Developments in Cancer Diagnosis Timing
A new study, published last year, found that, although cancer survival rates are improving in the UK, we still often lag behind other European and worldwide comparable countries.
Cancer in the UK and Abroad
For some major cancers, such as bowel cancer, pancreatic cancer, lung cancer and stomach cancer, the UK was found to have a lower five-year survival rate than Australia, Norway, Canada, Denmark, Ireland and New Zealand.
Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are key factors in determining a patient's chances of survival.
UK Cancer Referral Targets
- Patients with suspected cancer should be seen within 14 days by a specialist
- Patients should receive their first treatment for cancer within 31 days of diagnosis
- Patients should receive first treatment for cancer within 62 days of being referred to a specialist with suspected cancer
Unfortunately, a recent study by Cancer Research has found that around 25% of cancer patients experience unavoidable delays in diagnosis.
Government and NHS Initiatives
However, in an attempt to reduce diagnosis timing and improve long-term cancer survival rates, the NHS has introduced or planned a raft of measures:
- From April of this year (2020), the Government will be introducing the Faster Diagnosis Standard which aims to make sure that patients do not have to wait more than 28 days to find out whether or not they have a diagnosis of cancer. This should also facilitate faster access to treatment and reduce patient anxiety.
- Targeted Lung Health Checks are taking place in key locations around the UK where the population statistics suggest a vulnerability to this form of cancer. Mobile units enable diagnostic tests to take place in the community, increasing access to testing and advice.
- As a key to achieving the new Faster Diagnostic Standard, Rapid Diagnostic Centres are being established to gather cancer diagnosis expertise and technology in one place. The aim of these new centres would be to provide faster, earlier diagnosis through greater efficiency. It is also hoped that it will achieve greater consistency in access to diagnosis nationally.
Global cancer genome study
A new global study (by The Pan-Cancer Analysis of Whole Genomes Consortium) has also produced the most comprehensive understanding of cancer ever, analysing the genetic code of 2,658 cancers according to the BBC.
As reported by the BBC, Dr Peter Van Loo of the Francis Crick Institute noted that "We've developed the first timelines of genetic mutations across the spectrum of cancer types. Unlocking these patterns means it should now be possible to develop new diagnostic tests that pick up signs of cancer much earlier."
Medical negligence
Delays in the diagnosis of cancer can be due to a variety of factors including where the patient fails to recognise that their symptoms demand investigation.
However, where the patient attends their medical practitioner with symptoms which might indicate cancer but fails to receive a timely referral for further investigation, it might be considered as substandard care.
If the delay in diagnosis, and associated delay in treatment, causes a significant deterioration in the patient's long-term outcome it might be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a specialist solicitor
Glynns Solicitors is a clinical negligence legal practice. If you or a loved one are suffering the impact of a delay in diagnosing cancer, contact us to talk to an experience, specialist medical negligence solicitor about the possibility of a compensation claim.
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