Medical negligence solicitor Caroline Webber-Brown looks at cervical cancer negligence claims.
Symptoms of cervical cancer
Although early cervical cancer symptoms are not always shown, some people may experience symptoms such as:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Changes in vaginal discharge
- Pain and discomfort in the Pelvic area
- Unexplained weight loss
- Bladder or bowel complications
Smear tests
Smear tests are examinations of a woman’s cervix which help to detect any abnormalities or cancerous cells. This test is usually carried out every 3 years for women between the ages of 25 and 49, or every 5 years for women aged between 50 – 64.
It is important for women to attend all their routine smear tests, as cervical screening has been proven to save the lives of between 4,500 – 5,000 women every year in the UK.
Cervical screening and clinical negligence
Clinical negligence in cervical screening can occur when:
- the results of a smear test are misreported,
- healthcare professionals fail to act on abnormal results, or
- symptomatic red flags are ignored,
leading to a delayed diagnosis and devastating health outcomes.
Clinical negligence claims
Our clinical negligence department has handled a range of cervical cancer negligence claims, including:
Misinterpretation of slides: where an abnormal result has come back “negative” or “normal”.
Failure to communicate: Abnormal findings or recall letters that have not been effectively communicated to the patient or their GP.
Ignoring symptoms: Where a patient presents with symptoms such as unusual bleeding or pain, and a GP or clinician fails to perform a physical examination or make an urgent referral for further testing (such as a colposcopy).
Consequences of negligence
There are approximately 880 deaths per year in the UK due to cervical cancer. Being diagnosed with cervical cancer at an early stage is crucial. Early detection provides the best possible chance of successful treatment, significantly increases long-term survival rates, and opens up more treatment options.
When negligence arises and there is a delay in diagnosing cervical cancer, it can lead to more invasive treatment methods, more physical and psychological impact, and in some cases, premature death.
Obtain your free consultation
Contact our specialist team of SRA regulated medical negligence solicitors for a free consultation about making a cervical cancer negligence claim on a no win, no fee basis.
