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| Hospital's Failure to Detect Cancer Nearly Cuts Mother's Survival Odds in Half |
A North Staffordshire mother faced a significant reduction in her chances of survival after a prolonged delay in diagnosing her breast cancer. Denise Johnson, residing in Blythe Bridge, initially visited her GP in January 2019 when she discovered a lump. She was subsequently referred to Stafford's County Hospital for further evaluation.
Regrettably, no biopsy was performed during her visit to the hospital. After undergoing a mammogram and ultrasound, she received the startling news that the 1.5cm growth was simply a cyst. A hospital physician assured her that surgery was unnecessary and advised her to return to her GP only if the cyst became infected.
As her condition worsened, Denise returned to her GP in October of the same year, who, relying on the hospital's diagnosis, prescribed antibiotics for what was believed to be an infected cyst. A similar scenario occurred in February and March of 2021.
It wasn't until May of that year, two years after her initial referral, that Denise was finally referred to a breast clinic. Subsequent tests confirmed that she had breast cancer, with the tumor now measuring 3.8cm and the disease having spread to her lymph nodes.
Denise underwent surgery to remove the cancerous tissue and lymph nodes, followed by radiotherapy. Unfortunately, this treatment resulted in the development of lymphedema, a chronic condition characterized by tissue swelling.
A hospital report from Denise's legal team claims that an independent cancer expert stated that the missed opportunity to diagnose and treat her in 2019 had decreased her chances of survival from 98% to 57%. University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM), responsible for County Hospital and the Royal Stoke, subsequently apologized and admitted a breach of duty.
Denise shared her perspective, stating, "Although I attended routine mammograms to check it hadn't returned, I also regularly check my breasts as you can never be too careful. When I was told by the hospital that I had a cyst and didn't require further treatment, I felt reassured and relieved."
She continued, "Deep down, I was still worried, but had no reason not to believe what I'd been told. As time went on, I started to get more worried, especially as the appearance of the lump was changing and it started getting bigger."
"By the time of my second referral to the breast clinic, I was really concerned, but nothing prepared me for the news I had cancer. It was absolutely devastating, not only for me, but I also worried for my family."
Denise went on to describe the difficulties of her treatment and the lasting side effects, both physical and emotional. She expressed her hope that by sharing her story, she could assist others facing similar challenges.
Catherine Buchanan, the specialist medical negligence lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Denise, acknowledged the family's ordeal, stating, "Denise and her family have faced an incredibly tough few years coming to terms with her diagnosis and whether she would survive her cancer."
"Sadly, our investigation validated those concerns with the Trust admitting worrying failings in Denise's care. While nothing can make up for the hurt and pain Denise has been through and continues to live with, we're pleased that we've been able to provide her with the answers she deserves."
Buchanan stressed the importance of early detection and treatment in combating cancer and called for lessons to be learned from Denise's case to enhance patient safety.
She added, "We join Denise in raising awareness of the signs of breast cancer. Despite what happened to her and current concerns around cancer care and waiting times, it's important people continue to participate in screening programs or seek medical advice as soon as possible if they're concerned they may have cancer."
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