Over 148,000 men and women are estimated to be diagnosed with cancer of the colon year. The early detection of cancer of the colon allows the individual the best chance for surviving the cancer. If detected when it is only a polyp it can often be removed during a colonoscopy. And as long as it is caught before it spreads beyond the colon it may be possible to eliminate it by the surgical removal of the portion of the colon with the cancer. Approximately 37 percent (or roughly 54,750 people) will already have advanced cancer of the colon by the time they are diagnosed. And 19 percent (approximately 28,000 people will already be at stage 4 of the disease by the time they are diagnosed. Over 55,000 individuals are estimated to die as a result of the cancer.
So why are so many people not diagnosed until the cancer is already advanced? Partly it is due to the fact that people sometimes choose not to undergo screening even though their physician recommends it. Also some people just do not see a doctor on a regular basis. In addition there are cases of physicians fail to recommend colon screening to their patients and fail to follow up when the patient shows signs consistent with colon cancer. If the patient finds out metastatic colon cancer after the physician either failed to screen the patient or to follow up on complaints of symptoms, the patient may have a medical malpractice claim against that doctor. A diagnosis of advanced colon cancer means a reduced likelihood of a cure.
A cancer lawyer may be help you determine if there may be a medical malpractice claim against a doctor or other health care provider for the delayed diagnosis of colon cancer. In certain circumstances the family can seek the services of a wrongful death attorney This entry is meant for information purposes only and not as medical or legal advice. Always consult with a physician for any questions regarding medical matters and before taking any medical advice.!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.