Hospital Apologises After Failing To Diagnose Breast Cancer

Story broke on the BBC news website today that eight women in Cumbria, after initially being given the all-clear for breast cancer after scans, are now being treated for the disease.

Breast screening was halted in July pending a review of North Cumbria University Hospitals practices.

Hospital Trust Apologises For Distress And Anxiety Caused

The trust has apologised the patients affected, saying that they 'fully understand and appreciate the distress and anxiety caused by this issue'.

One can only imagine what these poor ladies are going through. Waiting on any medical exam results is stressful, even if they are just routine tests. So when scanning for serious diseases like cancer, it's obviously imperative that nothing is missed.

Details on exactly how the cancer in these patients was missed - whether it was human error or technological failure - have not emerged yet.

Early Detection Vital In Treatment Of Breast Cancer

To be initially given the all-clear, then to be told in fact that they have got cancer, must be heartbreaking for the patients and their families. Early detection is vital with breast cancer, so I just hope that the individuals concerned are still able to be treated successfully.

In instances like this, it may be possible to bring a claim for medical negligence against the NHS trust. If you or someone you know has been misdiagnosed or had a serious illness missed by a hospital or GP, please contact us today to discuss your claim free of charge with a specialist medical negligence solicitor.