Legal Experts React To New Cancer Research UK Study

Specialist medical negligence lawyers have urged the Government and NHS to work together to improve cancer diagnosis, after new research highlighted the importance of diagnosing such conditions earlier.

The study by Cancer Research UK found that more than 90% of patients live 10 years after being diagnosed at stage one with eight common cancers – bladder, bowel, breast, cervical, womb, malignant melanoma, ovarian and testicular.

In comparison, only 5% live 10 years after being diagnosed at stage four.

According to Cancer Research UK's director of early diagnosis, Sara Hiom, the figures show “the prize on offer” if earlier diagnosis can be achieved.

She added: "Early diagnosis and ensuring patients have access to the best treatment is essential to further improving survival from cancer. We need increased funding in NHS services and more research to develop tests to spot cancer sooner, and help more people to beat the disease."

If your have suffered due to a delayed cancer diagnosis or a cancer misdiagnosis, our medical negligence lawyers could help you claim compensation. Call 0808 163 4557 for a free initial consultation or see our Cancer Misdiagnosis Claims page for more details.

Expert Opinion

“People who are diagnosed with cancer deserve the best chance of survival possible, but sadly we do see many cases where opportunities to diagnose illnesses have been missed and there have been delays in commencing treatment, often with devastating consequences. <br/> <br/>“These new statistics show how important it is that every effort is made to improve the timing of diagnosis. We would urge both the Government and the NHS to continue their efforts to do all they can to guarantee that cancer patients get the highest possible standard of support.” Guy Forster - Partner