Delayed diagnosis: Brent’s World Cancer Day story

3 out of every 10 deaths in Australia during 2024 were estimated to be due to cancer. 

World Cancer Day shines a spotlight on the importance early detection and treatment play in reducing cancers impact. Statistics say that at least one-third of all deaths related to cancer could be prevented through routine screening and early detection.

This year’s theme is 'United by Unique', which is a thoughtful reminder that the individuals affected by cancer are more than a statistic. Every person impacted by cancer has a unique story to tell and are united in a shared ambition to see cancer treated successfully. 

Our client, Brent, has shared his unique story to raise awareness about delays in diagnosis and the importance of early management and treatment. 

Brent's story

Brent was in his prime, a cross fit trainer in his mid 30’s when his life was turned upside down by a life-changing cancer diagnosis. Brent awoke after a routine colonoscopy to learn that he had advanced cancer of the colon. When caught early, bowel cancer is very treatable. When advanced cases are detected, the risks are much higher. 

Brent had a family history of bowel cancer and a condition that made him at an above-average risk of colon cancer. As a result of this, Brent underwent annual colonoscopies. Eventually, Brent’s hospitals stopped screening him regularly. It was only when Brent began experiencing unexplained abdominal pain and diarrhoea that his general practitioner realised, he was overdue for another screening. This led to the colonoscopy that discovered Brent had advanced cancer. 

As a husband and father, Brent felt distressed and despair knowing he had to tell his family that he was suffering with advanced cancer. Brent had a long road ahead of him but found strength in the support his wife and children provided. 

Soon after his diagnosis, he required urgent surgery to remove most of his colon.

The surgery took place over multiple rounds and included serious complications with a painful recovery. Shortly after the surgery, Brent had to begin chemotherapy. 

"The treatment's common side effects were daunting, but I braced myself, determined to endure for my family," he says. 

Brent faced his chemotherapy courageously and was able to complete the course, despite experiencing extreme physical reactions over the three and a half months of treatment.

Brent understands that with earlier detection his treatment was likely to have been less invasive and he was likely to have had a better outcome. 

Brent's life forever changed.  His surgery led to permanent changes to his diet, digestion, and sleep. The traumatic and painful process of Brent’s diagnosis has left a lasting physiological impact. 

Possible cancer signs and symptoms

The World Cancer Organisation has published information regarding key signs and symptoms to look out for, including:

• Unusual lumps or swelling
• Unexplained weight loss
• Appetite loss
• Unexplained bleeding
• Changes in bowel habits
• Fatigue
• Pain or ache
• New moles or changes to moles
• Heavy night sweats
• Sores that won’t heal
• Unusual changes to your body

There are several different types of cancers and symptoms vary. You should seek medical advice for any abnormal or persisting concerns.

Asking for the right medical treatment

If you have any unexplained symptoms, you should consult with your medical practitioner. If your symptoms haven’t resolved or you aren’t satisfied with the explanation or treatment provided, you are within your rights to seek a second opinion or ask for a referral to a specialist.

If there are delays in seeing a specialist or receiving appointment details from the hospital, you are within your rights to follow up your appointment. Be sure to advise your doctor if any of your symptoms have changed so that the full extent and severity of your symptoms are known.

What to do if you experience a delay in diagnosis

Our medical negligence lawyers often hear stories about missed opportunities to diagnose cancer at an earlier stage. Whether due to misdiagnosis, a failure to acknowledge a patient’s symptoms or perform the appropriate investigations, a delay in the diagnosis can result in devastating injuries and in some cases, avoidable death. 

If you or a loved one has suffered because of a failed diagnosis or negligent medical treatment, our team of expert medical negligence lawyers are here to help you understand your options.