Screening for Colon Cancer

Colon cancer screenings are critical preventive measures aimed at detecting colorectal cancer in its early stages when it is most treatable, or identifying polyps that can be removed before they become cancerous. Colon cancer screenings play a vital role in reducing the incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer, but when screenings are delayed or performed improperly, they are ineffective, which in some instances can result in cancer going undetected. If you or a loved one were injured by errors in the process of screening for colon cancer, you may be able to recover damages in a medical malpractice lawsuit, and you should speak to an attorney. At Arfaa Law Group, our trusted Baltimore medical malpractice attorneys are proficient at proving that careless doctors must be held accountable for the injuries they cause, and if we represent you, we will help you pursue the outcome you deserve.

Screening for colon cancer involves various tests designed to detect early-stage cancer or precancerous polyps in asymptomatic individuals. The most common screening methods include colonoscopy, fecal occult blood tests, fecal immunochemical tests, and sigmoidoscopy. Colonoscopy is considered the gold standard, allowing direct visualization and removal of polyps. Screening guidelines generally recommend that individuals with an average risk of colorectal cancer begin screening at age 45. Those with higher risk factors, such as a family history of colorectal cancer, certain genetic conditions, or a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, may need to start screening earlier and undergo more frequent tests.

Errors in colon cancer screening can occur at various stages, from sample collection to the interpretation of results and follow-up. False-negative results, where the test fails to detect existing cancer or polyps, can delay diagnosis and treatment. The failure to adhere to recommended screening intervals or to ensure proper preparation can lead to inaccurate results as well. In some instances, a doctor may harm a patient by failing to recommend appropriate follow-up care.

In order for screening for colon cancer to be accurate and effective, the doctors performing them must abide by screening guidelines. Unfortunately, in some instances, screening tests are not conducted properly, and the end result is often patient harm.

People injured by careless screening for colon cancer will often pursue damages via medical malpractice claims. Broadly speaking, a plaintiff in a medical malpractice case must prove the defendant’s negligence. In Maryland, this means that, initially, the plaintiff has to show that the defendant owed them a duty to comply with the standard of care. Next, the plaintiff needs to demonstrate that the defendant breached the standard in some way. For example, if the standard required screening to be conducted on a yearly basis for a person with the plaintiff’s risk factors and the plaintiff failed to do so, it may be considered a breach. Lastly, the plaintiff has to establish that they suffered quantifiable losses and that they were directly caused by the defendant’s breach. In most cases, the plaintiff will need to retain an expert to explain the standard of care to the judge or jury. The expert will also need to clarify how the defendant breached the standard of care and connect the defendant’s actions to the plaintiff’s harm.

Screening for colon cancer significantly enhances the chances of early detection, which generally broadens treatment options and improves patient outcomes. However, if the screening process is mishandled or overlooked entirely, colon cancer may go undiagnosed until it advances to a stage where effective treatment is unlikely. If you were hurt by errors made during the colon cancer screening process, it is important to evaluate what damages you may be owed, and you should meet with an attorney as soon as possible. The capable Baltimore medical malpractice lawyers at Arfaa Law Group are committed to holding negligent physicians accountable for the harm they cause, and if you engage our services, we will use our knowledge and experience to help you seek the best outcome possible. Our office is located in Baltimore, and we frequently assist individuals in medical malpractice cases across the city. To schedule a consultation, you can contact us at 410-889-1850 or through our online form.