This month is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, the most common cancer for men across the UK affecting around 1 in 8, and diagnosed in 52,000 men every year.
The good news is that prostate cancer can be curable, especially when identified and treated early. Early symptoms to be aware of usually relate to difficulties or changes concerning urination, but can include painful ejaculation or persistent pain in back, hips or pelvis.
There is also a blood test, called a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test, which measures the level of PSA in the blood. Levels of PSA in the blood can be higher in men who have prostate cancer.
If results show a raised level of PSA, GPs should consider more tests and the need for further review. Failure to do so can have devastating consequences, as one of Dutton Gregory’s most experienced Medical Negligence specialists, Michael Kingman, knows from first-hand experience.
“A few years ago, I was instructed by a client who, sadly, found himself in that very situation,” Michael explains. “After losing his first wife and becoming a widower, he had found love again, remarried and had a young child.”
“One day he saw his doctor to seek guidance on what he thought was a urinary infection. The GP, quite correctly, arranged blood tests. Though the results came back showing a markedly raised PSA, nothing was done. Nearly five years later, he was given the devastating diagnosis of terminal prostate cancer.”
“The legal representatives for the GP admitted negligence, but argued that an earlier diagnosis would not have changed the outcome. They offered £50,000 in settlement, which I advised my client to reject and the case was brought to trial.”
“The Judge accepted the evidence put forward by our medical expert and my client was awarded a settlement of £330,000, providing his wife and child with the financial security that he wanted for them.”
If you or someone you know has experienced sub-standard or delayed medical care, do not hesitate to contact our team of specialist Medical Negligence Solicitors on 01202 315005.
