As we enter Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, Kenneth Lees, Head of Medical Negligence at O’Donnell Solicitors, takes a look at attempts to increase cervical screening awareness and the potential for clinical negligence issues to arise in the process.
What is cervical cancer?
Cervical cancer is where abnormal cells develop in the lining of the cervix and grow uncontrollably forming a tumour. Without treatment, the cancer cells can grow into surrounding tissues and may spread to other parts of the body. Globally, cervical cancer is the 4th most common cancer in women, with 9 cases diagnosed every day in the UK, yet Cancer Research UK states that virtually all cases of cervical cancer are preventable.
What are the symptoms of cervical cancer?
Early-stage cervical cancer is not usually associated with any symptoms. Common symptoms include heavier than normal periods, irregular/unusual vaginal bleeding/discharge, recurrent urinary infections, and pain in the lower tummy or back.
Prevention – Cervical Screening and the HPV Vaccine
The main cause of cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (‘HPV’). Cervical screening is offered to most women, and some trans men and non-binary people with a cervix, aged 25 to 64. The test involves taking a sample of cells from the cervix. Samples are first tested for the presence of high-risk HPV and, if found, for abnormal cell changes in the cervix. A finding of abnormal cells will lead to a colposcopy, and they can be removed or monitored to prevent cancer developing.
NHS England aims to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040 with the use of both cervical screening and the HPV vaccine. Macmillan Cancer Support highlights that, whilst the HPV vaccination is associated with a 90% reduction of cervical cancer cases in England and protects against the most common types of high-risk HPV that cause cervical cancers, it does not protect against all types, so cervical screening remains important. The BBC has reported concerns from The Eve Appeal about a knowledge gap around cervical screenings, highlighting the adjustments that can be requested at a cervical screening appointment.
Pursuing a Medical Negligence Claim
Patients may experience a delayed diagnosis of cervical cancer for a number of reasons including:
- Failure to invite for cervical screening
- Failure to diagnose/report HPV, abnormal cells and/or cancer
- Failure to follow up on a finding of HPV, abnormal cells and/or cancer
If you suspect negligence has affected you, please contact our expert team who are here to advise you and help you to start a claim.
To arrange a free, no-obligation consultation, contact us via phone, email, or our online enquiry form.
