Since 2020, 4th February has been designated as World Cancer Day. This was established by the Union for International Cancer Control, with the aim of raising awareness about cancer, and taking steps to prevent and effectively treat cancer worldwide. World Cancer Day is a moment to raise awareness of cancer symptoms, emphasise the importance of early diagnosis, and acknowledge those whose cancer was not identified or treated in time. At Enable Law, our specialist cancer team, led by experienced solicitor Kym Provan, supports individuals and families whose lives have been altered because symptoms were overlooked, referrals were delayed or test results were not followed up.
A delayed or incorrect cancer diagnosis can mean the difference between straightforward treatment and life‑changing surgery. It can reduce life expectancy and, for some families, lead to heart-breaking loss. Understanding when care has fallen below an acceptable standard is an important step in helping people obtain answers, support and, where appropriate, compensation.
When cancer diagnosis goes wrong
Cancer misdiagnosis can occur for many reasons. Sometimes a GP does not recognise symptoms or fails to make a timely referral. In other cases, investigations such as scans, blood tests or biopsies are delayed or misinterpreted. Treatment may not begin quickly enough, or important follow‑up appointments may be missed.
Every cancer is different, and every patient is affected differently. This is why our specialist cancer negligence team takes the time to understand each person’s medical history and o consider, often with input from medical experts, what should reasonably have happened in any individual case
We regularly support people affected by delays in diagnosing many different cancers, including breast cancer, bowel cancer, lung cancer, cervical cancer, bladder cancer, prostate cancer, skin cancer and oral cancer.
Early detection is often crucial. For example, women with breast lumps should be referred for urgent assessment, and abnormal cervical screening results must be identified and followed up quickly. Persistent bowel symptoms, changes to moles, blood in the urine or a chronic cough are all warning signs that require investigation. When these opportunities are missed, the consequences can be severe.
The impact of delay
A late cancer diagnosis can mean more aggressive treatment, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy or extensive surgery. Many people are left unable to work for long periods, experience long‑term side effects or face reduced life expectancy. For families who lose a loved one because their cancer was not identified early enough, the emotional, practical and financial impact can be overwhelming.
Clients often tell us that what they need most is a clear explanation. They need to understand what happened, why things went wrong and whether the outcome could have been different. Many also want reassurance that lessons will be learned so that others do not suffer in the same way.
How compensation can help
Compensation cannot change the diagnosis, but it can make an important difference. A claim can help cover the costs of specialist treatment, rehabilitation, transport to hospital appointments, lost earnings and, in some cases, financial support for dependants. It can also help individuals access expert psychological support and other services that make coping with cancer easier.
A successful claim may also provide clarity, accountability and, in some cases, an apology. For many clients, this brings a sense of closure and helps them move forward.
How we can help
Even though medical professionals endeavour to provide the best possible care to their patients, mistakes can and do happen. Unfortunately, when a cancer diagnosis is delayed or missed for a long period of time, it can have a major impact on the treatment options available to patients and their longer term prognosis.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a delayed or missed cancer diagnosis, we can help you understand what may have happened and support you to make a claim to access the needed funds to help put your life back together. That often involves funding to access private treatment but also ensuring financial security for your loved ones. This enables you to focus all your energy into getting better and spending time with family and friends, without worrying about money and the impact your illness may have on them.
To have a free, confidential discussion with a member of our team call us on 0800 044 8488 or fill in our contact form so we can call you at a time convenient to you.
