A timely and accurate diagnosis is critical in the effective treatment of colon cancer, as delays can significantly impact survival rates. Unfortunately, diagnostic errors such as missed symptoms, misinterpreted test results, or failure to refer patients for timely screenings can lead to the progression of the disease to more severe stages. In Prince George’s County, colon cancer malpractice claims often arise from these types of delays, with patients suffering physically, emotionally, and financially as a result.
If you or someone you love has experienced harm due to a delayed or missed diagnosis of colon cancer, Foran & Foran, P.A. is here to help. Our experienced Prince George’s County colon cancer malpractice lawyers will examine your case, work to hold healthcare providers accountable, and fight to recover compensation for your damages. Contact us to discuss how we can assist in your journey toward justice and recovery.
Key Factors Contributing to Colon Cancer MisdiagnosisColon cancer is among the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the United States, with the American Cancer Society estimating around 95,520 new cases of colon cancer and 39,910 cases of rectal cancer diagnosed in 2017 alone. This cancer ranks third among the most common cancers in Americans, affecting individuals across various age groups. While colon cancer rates have decreased slightly in older populations, they have, alarmingly, risen by 1.6% among individuals under 50. This trend raises concerns about delays and difficulties in early diagnosis, especially in younger patients.
Colon cancer symptoms can often resemble other gastrointestinal conditions, leading many patients to experience delays in accurate diagnosis. Patients under 50, in particular, face unique challenges in getting an accurate diagnosis due to age bias and the nonspecific nature of symptoms, which may include:
Symptoms like these are frequently mistaken for less severe conditions, causing many patients to see multiple doctors before being properly diagnosed.
Delays in Diagnosis and Their Impact on Colon Cancer PatientsIn younger populations, misdiagnosis or delays in diagnosis can lead to colon cancer advancing to later stages by the time it is detected. The American Cancer Society found that, in contrast to patients over 50 who are usually diagnosed at stage I or II, 71% of younger patients receive a stage III or IV diagnosis, significantly reducing their chances for effective treatment and long-term survival. Additionally, 67% of younger patients reported seeing at least two doctors before receiving an accurate diagnosis. Some patients had to consult up to four physicians to uncover the true nature of their symptoms.
This delayed pathway to diagnosis can result in a more aggressive course of treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and other therapies that may have been avoidable had the cancer been caught earlier.
Who Might Be Liable in Cases of Colon Cancer Misdiagnosis?In cases where colon cancer diagnosis is delayed, various healthcare providers may share liability for medical malpractice or wrongful death. A Prince George’s County colon cancer lawyer can investigate whether multiple parties, including primary care physicians, gastroenterologists, and diagnostic radiologists, played a role in the delay. Errors that may lead to misdiagnosis include:
By examining each provider’s role, a Prince George’s County colon cancer attorney can determine who should be held accountable for the harm caused by delayed diagnosis and improper care.
Was Your Colon Cancer Diagnosis Delayed or Missed?A failure to diagnose cancer, particularly colon cancer, can drastically reduce treatment options and affect quality of life. At Foran & Foran, our team has over 85 years of combined experience in holding medical professionals accountable for oncologist malpractice. With a strong history of achieving substantial verdicts and settlements, we’re dedicated to providing the assertive, compassionate advocacy you need. Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win. To learn more and to schedule a free consultation today, give Foran & Foran's Prince George's County medical malpractice lawyers a call at 301-441-2022. We proudly represent clients in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, La Plata, Silver Spring, Rockville, and the surrounding areas.