Rectal cancer, when caught early, has a range of effective treatment options that can significantly improve patient outcomes. However, a missed or delayed diagnosis can rob patients of these crucial opportunities, resulting in more aggressive treatments and a higher risk of complications. The Prince George's County rectal cancer malpractice attorneys at Foran & Foran are devoted to helping patients who have been let down by medical professionals in their journey with rectal cancer.
At Foran & Foran, we understand the importance of addressing these failures in medical care and are here to provide solid legal representation. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a missed rectal cancer diagnosis, our team will guide you through the legal process and help you take action. Foran & Foran is committed to seeking accountability and justice for those affected, ensuring you don't face this journey alone. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in seeking compensation and closure.
Risk Factors That Complicate Rectal Cancer DiagnosisRectal cancer can present diagnostic challenges due to several contributing risk factors. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, immunosuppression, sexually transmitted infections, and tobacco use all increase the risk of developing anal or rectal cancer. Doctors may not always associate these risk factors with early warning signs, including symptoms like rectal bleeding, persistent itching, or changes in bowel habits. These signs are commonly attributed to benign conditions, such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures, which can delay the exploration of cancer as a potential diagnosis. A Prince George's County rectal cancer attorney will review cases to identify if such missteps contributed to delayed diagnosis.
Common Symptoms Mistaken for Non-Cancerous ConditionsRectal cancer symptoms often resemble those of common anorectal disorders, complicating accurate diagnosis. A study revealed that nearly 27% of anal cancer cases were initially misdiagnosed as hemorrhoids by primary care providers, causing patients to experience unnecessary delays in appropriate care. Rectal bleeding, a primary symptom of rectal cancer, may be dismissed as hemorrhoidal in origin, while other signs like pain, itching, or lumps are frequently treated as benign conditions. For patients facing such misdiagnoses, this delay in identifying cancer can mean the difference between effective, less invasive treatment and a more aggressive approach required at later stages.
A Prince George's County rectal cancer lawyer can investigate whether healthcare providers such as a patient’s Gastroenterologist acted negligently by dismissing symptoms or failing to conduct further tests. Delays in diagnosis due to assumptions based on typical symptoms could indicate negligence, especially when those delays contribute to cancer progression.
The Financial and Emotional Toll of MisdiagnosisFor families facing a late-stage rectal cancer diagnosis, the financial and emotional impacts are often overwhelming. Treatments in advanced stages are more invasive and costly, leading to medical bills that place additional stress on the patient and their loved ones. Patients may undergo surgery complications, radiation, or chemotherapy—treatments that could have been less extensive if cancer had been diagnosed earlier. Financial concerns, coupled with the anxiety of late-stage treatment, impact the well-being of the entire family. Legal help from a Prince George's County rectal cancer lawyer provides a path toward recovering damages that can offset these expenses and offer some relief.
How a Prince George's County Rectal Cancer Lawyer Can HelpWhen faced with diagnostic failures, patients deserve support and accountability. Foran & Foran can help patients affected by rectal cancer misdiagnosis understand their rights and options. Our experienced legal team will review medical records, consult with healthcare experts, and build a case for those affected by diagnostic or hospital negligence. Pursuing legal action not only helps individuals recover financial damages but also promotes higher standards in healthcare to prevent future diagnostic errors.
If you or a loved one has experienced a delayed rectal cancer diagnosis, contact Foran & Foran today to discuss how we can assist you in holding healthcare providers accountable. With the support of a Prince George's County rectal cancer attorney, you can pursue the justice and compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on health and healing.
Was Your Rectal Cancer Diagnosis Delayed or Overlooked?A failure to diagnose cancer, such as rectal cancer, can have life-altering consequences, reducing treatment options and impacting your long-term prognosis. At Foran & Foran, we have over 85 years of experience helping clients who have suffered worsening cancer diagnoses due to diagnostic errors. With a strong record of successful verdicts and settlements, our team is committed to advocating for those affected by medical negligence. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you only pay for our services if we achieve a successful outcome. 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.