Wrongful Death From Delayed Colon Cancer Diagnosis

Each year more than one hundred forty eight thousand men and women are diagnosed with cancer of the colon. Every year more than 55,000 individuals die from the disease. If diagnosed early colon cancer is for the most part considered curable. If caught early enough the cancer can be removed during a colonoscopy while it is still a mere polyp.

Even though there have been many attempts to educate the public about screening for colon cancer many people still do not undergo screening procedures, such as a colonoscopy. Some people refuse to undergo the procedure even though their doctor recommends it. Yet there are still times when doctors who do not refer their patients for screening. This sometimes occurs even when the patient has symptoms. Without performing any tests, these physicians sometimes assure their patients that the are merely due to hemorrhoids.

If the doctor does this and the patient is later found to have metastatic colon cancer the patient may have a medical malpractice claim against that doctor. Yet, every year roughly thirty seven percent (or about 54,750 people) already have advanced cancer of the colon by the time they are diagnosed. Additionally 19 percent (roughly 28,000 people) are already at stage 4 of the disease when they are first diagnosed. A diagnosis of advanced colon cancer means a much reduced five year survival rate.

If you or a member of your family have been diagnosed with advanced cancer of the colon and you believe that the diagnosis was delayed due to a physician’s failure to recommend colon cancer screening or failure to follow up on complaints of colon cancer symptoms a cancer attorney can help you determine whether there may be a medical malpractice claim. In certain circumstances a wrongful death lawyer may be able to assist the family.The above should not be considered medical advice. You should always consult with a doctor regarding any medical issues and before taking any medical advice.