Cervical Screening Awareness Week – The Importance of Early Detection
Staci Markham, a medical negligence specialist, has acted for many clients when, through no fault of their own, there have been delays in diagnosing their cervical cancer.
Why Cervical Screening Matters
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer when detected early. Whilst cervical screening does, in the majority of cases, help lead to early detection, there are cases where this doesn’t happen, despite someone being up to date with routine screening.
Case Study: The Consequences of Medical Negligence
One case that Staci pursued for a client, related to a delayed diagnosis resulting in the cancer being at a more advanced stage by the time the diagnosis was made. The client had been presenting to her GP with textbook symptoms of cervical cancer which led to her being referred to hospital, however at hospital she was falsely reassured that there was no cause for concern.
It also became apparent, from Staci’s investigations, that there was an even earlier opportunity for the cancer to be diagnosed. The client had always attended her regular smear tests and when Staci assisted the client in requesting a review of her previous smear test results, the last test, some 2 years previously, had been incorrectly reported as ‘normal’ when it should have advised of ‘borderline changes’. Had it been correctly reported, the client would have been referred, on a two week wait basis, for further investigation. At this time the cancer would have been at very early stages, and she would have required minimally invasive treatment which would have been curative.
However, as a result of the delay in diagnosis the cancer progressed, and the treatment required was much more invasive and included the need for her to have a hysterectomy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and brachytherapy. Whilst undergoing these treatments the client was very unwell and she suffered significant permanent side effects as a result, all of which would have been avoided with an earlier diagnosis. In addition, her life expectancy was reduced and the chance of her developing a recurrence of her cancer was increased.
Fortunately, the defendant made full admissions of liability, and the case was settled with allowances for future treatment which the client needed to help alleviate her ongoing problems. Whilst no amount of compensation made up for the suffering she had experienced, it helped her get her life back on track.
Have You Experienced a Delayed Diagnosis?
If you or a loved one are concerned that you may have been the victim of a delayed diagnosis of cervical cancer and wish to seek answers please get in touch with one of our medical negligence specialists on 0800 987 8800 or make a free online enquiry here and we will contact you. Alternatively, email us at [email protected].
About Staci Markham
Staci’s experience includes dealing with complex clinical negligence cases, including injuries sustained during or around birth such as cerebral palsy cases, brain injuries, cauda equina syndrome and severe orthopaedic injuries. She has over 12 years’ experience working in the field. Read more about Staci Markham.
What is Cervical Screening Awareness Week?
Cervical Screening Awareness Week takes place in June each year, with the aim to raise awareness about the importance of regular cervical screenings for women’s health. Find out more at Macmillan.Org.UK https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-awareness/cervical-screening-awareness-week
Medical Negligence Specialists – Bridge McFarland LLP
medicalnegligence.co.uk is owned and operated by Bridge McFarland LLP, an established and nationally recognised law firm renowned for specialist expertise and experience in this complex area of law. With our determination and commitment to providing our clients with an exceptional standard of service, we have held the highly regarded Lexcel quality mark since June 2008.
