Most people don’t have serious long term effects from radiotherapy. But because Hodgkin lymphoma treatment is so successful and people are living a long time after treatment, doctors are beginning to see problems emerging many years later.
Research has found that women treated for Hodgkin lymphoma with radiotherapy when they were under 30 years of age have an increased risk of developing another cancer later in life. The highest risk is the possible development of breast cancer approximately 10 years later. This is caused by radiotherapy to the chest area.
Urgent screening
In 2003 women who had received radiotherapy above their waist to treat Hodgkin lymphoma were identified as being at very high risk of breast cancer, so were contacted by their local NHS Trust to discuss their risks and were offered appropriate screening. Last year the NHS were alerted to the fact that some women treated for Hodgkin lymphoma when aged between 10 to 35 years during 1962 and 2003 may not have been invited for appropriate screening. The NHS subsequently rapidly reviewed each case and found that 1,487 women in England needed to be incorporated into the Very High Risk (VHR) screening pathway as soon as possible.
Going forwards, women who had this type of radiotherapy between 1962 and 2003 will be requested to attend annual breast cancer MRI screening. Whilst for other Hodgkin lymphoma sufferers, they will automatically be referred for annual breast screening 8 years after treatment, or from the age of 30 (whichever is later). And depending on their age and situation, they will also be offered a mammogram.
What happens next?
NHS England are in the process of sending out letters to those women who are affected. The letter will explain the issue and invite them on to the very high risk (VHR) screening pathway. For those who have had a bilateral mastectomy, an apology will be offered together with details of what has happened and finally they will be reassured that their case will be reviewed by their responsible NHS Trust.
A dedicated helpline to offer support to women affected by this issue, has been opened 0345 877 8962. It’s available 7 days a week. Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 5pm and weekends 10am to 4pm and local call charges will apply. If you believe that you have been affected, but have not received a letter, then please contact the helpline who will be able to arrange for your case to be reviewed.
MRI/mammogram results
Rachael Flanagan, Head of Medical Negligence at Alster Kelley said. “If you are one of those who needs very high risk screening, the NHS will contact you and your local breast screening service will offer you an appointment for an MRI scan within three months. They will also check if you need a mammogram and if so, you will be offered that on the same day as your MRI.”
Rachael continued. “If you are part of the VHR screening pathway, have had your scan and cancer was unfortunately detected, then first and foremost we are very sorry. However, if you are looking for help, advice or representation if you wish to bring a legal claim against the NHS, then please get in touch – 01926 356056 or email rachael.flanagan@alsterskelley.com.”
Free initial meeting for support and advice
Over the years we have helped many people who have suffered harm at the hands of those they have put their trust in. We can help to minimise the impact of the process and secure the compensation you or they are entitled to.
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Call now 01926 356 030 to arrange a free consultation with one of our experienced medical negligence lawyers at any of our six offices.
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Rachael Flanagan
Rachael’s role is to represent Claimant’s in Medical Negligence and Personal Injury claims and help her clients achieve the level of compensation they deserve. Rachael is also committed to ensure her client’s receive appropriate rehabilitation.
rachael.flanagan@alsterskelley.com