Moosa-Duke Solicitors are proud to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October 2021. Around 55,000 women and almost 400 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year in the UK. Whilst improvements in detection, treatment and cancer care have doubled survival rates in the past forty years, there are easy and important steps which can reduce a person’s risk of breast cancer and ensure it is detected earlier.

Cancer Research UK recommends that people are ‘breast aware’ and regularly check their breasts, upper chest and armpits for any changes in size, shape or feel. Earlier cancer diagnosis saves lives, so if you notice any changes which are unusual for you, it is important to get these checked by a doctor. Simple lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, lowering alcohol consumption and keeping active have also shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Although many patients receive swift and suitable cancer treatment, sadly, failings can occur in both diagnosis and treatment. Moosa-Duke Solicitors are experienced clinical negligence solicitors with vast expertise in cancer related claims.

One of our clients, Ms X, noticed a difference in the texture of her right breast and underwent investigative imaging scans. She was incorrectly advised by the Hospital Trust that her results did not give cause for concern. Two years later, she noticed a swelling in the same breast and upon further investigation, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Ms X’s condition deteriorated and it was discovered that her cancer had spread and was terminal. Ms X passed away the following year. After obtaining expert evidence, it became clear that if Ms X’s initial scans had been correctly interpreted and she had received appropriate treatment, she would have had a normal life expectancy.

After settlement negotiations, Moosa-Duke Solicitors, in conjunction with Counsel from No.5 Chambers, secured a settlement for Ms X’s family.  

In another claim, our client, Ms C, was not referred for further investigations by her GP after she presented with significant symptoms. This delayed the diagnosis of her breast cancer. As a consequence, Ms C suffered a fracture which required surgical intervention due to the spread of the cancer into the bones. If she had been referred earlier, Ms C would have avoided the fracture. Moosa-Duke Solicitors successfully achieved a settlement for Ms C.

The effects of misdiagnosed breast cancer or a delay in the diagnosis can have tragic consequences. If you are concerned that a mistake has been made at any stage of your, or a family member’s, cancer care, you may be entitled to claim compensation. Please call us on 0116 254 7456 for a no obligation discussion or send us an email at enquiries@moosaduke.com.