March marks Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and this year the campaign is set to raise awareness of the importance of early diagnosis, with a particular focus on the role of genetic predisposition. Building upon existing initiatives, there is increased campaigning activity to broaden access to BRCA gene testing, especially for women with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer. Public campaigns place a strong emphasis on the often-subtle symptoms of ovarian cancer, such as persistent bloating, abdominal pain, and alterations in bowel habits, encouraging women to seek medical advice quickly. Furthermore, there is a drive to enhance GP awareness of these symptoms, facilitating earlier referrals for diagnostic investigations. Many discussions focus on prevention and early diagnosis and the importance of genetics testing in identifying those most likely to benefit from targeted treatments. The core objective of March 2025’s awareness campaigns is to empower women with knowledge and advocate for earlier, more accurate diagnosis, ultimately aiming to improve survival rates.
Are some people more susceptible than others?
Ovarian cancer, while often presenting without clear early symptoms, has a notable link to genetics. Certain inherited gene mutations, most notably in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, significantly increase a woman’s risk of developing the disease. These genes, normally involved in DNA repair, when mutated, can lead to uncontrolled cell growth. Other genes, like those associated with Lynch syndrome, also play a role, though less frequently. Consequently, a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer can be a crucial indicator of potential genetic predisposition. Genetic testing and increased monitoring can help identify at-risk individuals and give them the best chance of recovery through an early diagnosis.
Delayed diagnosis of ovarian cancer – Sarah’s story
Our client Sarah was an at-risk individual for developing ovarian cancer both due to her family history and her heritage. She was under the care of two separate healthcare providers who both failed to diagnose her ovarian cancer before the cancer grew and metastasised. Sarah decided to bring a claim against her healthcare providers to understand who was responsible for her delayed diagnosis and hold them accountable. Devastatingly, she died from a metastasis of the cancer during the course of the claim so it fell to her widow to pursue it on her behalf as a fatal claim.
Enable Law’s Elizabeth O’Mahony represented Sarah in her claim.
It was a challenging and complex case; four separate expert disciplines (gynaecology, radiology, oncology and pathology) were instructed and their reports interrogated to formulate complicated breach of duty and causation arguments. This was a fiercely defended claim and required a feisty and determined approach by Elizabeth to ensure Sarah’s voice was heard and her position clearly and robustly put to the defendant teams.
A round table meeting was arranged just a month before trial. It was an extremely difficult negotiation, but the legal team was driven by how important resolution was to the family given the deeply sensitive issues involved. Despite liability not ultimately being admitted, the negotiation achieved a substantial six figure financial settlement for the family which was in fact six times higher than the defendants opening offer.
The wider family implications were significant as Sarah’s children had potentially inherited her increased genetic risk of developing ovarian cancer. Testing to see if the gene mutation had been passed down was therefore crucial. Understanding what led to Sarah’s passing was not just a matter of needing answers about her situation, but also understanding what this might mean for her children.
How we can help you
At Enable Law we have a dedicated team of medical negligence experts who specialise in supporting clients who have concerns about the diagnosis and treatment they received of cancer. Our team is extremely experienced and has supported hundreds of clients get answers, funds for private treatment and access financial security for themselves and their dependants allowing them to focus on their treatment maximising their chances of recovery.
To speak to a Elizabeth O’Mahony or a member of the team call us today on 0800 044 8488 or fill in our contact form so a member of our team can call you back at a time convenient for you.
