Prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer affecting men in the U.S. It is estimated that approximately 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with this disease, and the risk increases with age.
There are various types of cancer that can be found in the prostate, but most men suffer from what’s called adenocarcinoma. Regardless of the type of prostate cancer, treatment efficacy depends on early detection and receiving the appropriate level of care. Doctors must act with the utmost care to ensure they accurately identify and treat prostate cancer in an attempt to prevent it from worsening or spreading.
Early stages of prostate cancer are often asymptomatic, meaning there are no signs or symptoms that suggest anything is wrong. It is generally recommended for men aged 55 and older to receive regular prostate cancer screening. However, earlier testing may be needed for men with a family history of prostate cancer or other risk factors.
If a doctor fails to recognize the signs of prostate cancer, ignores risk factors, or neglects to order testing for a patient, the cancer may worsen and become symptomatic in the following ways:
Depending on the stage of prostate cancer, there may be numerous treatment options available. Screening through prostate-specific antigen testing or digital rectal exams is an effective way to identify prostate cancer, even in the early stages. However, failing to diagnose in an appropriate amount of time can mean complications and worsening symptoms.
There are slow-spreading forms of prostate cancer that often require no treatment. Aggressive forms of the disease also exist, which is why your doctor’s competence and vigilance in screening and considering risk factors is crucial. A physician may also be responsible for the damage caused by delayed prostate cancer diagnosis if they fail to:
If you have been misdiagnosed or otherwise negatively affected by a delayed diagnosis, you may be able to file a claim for the damages your doctor has caused. In Connecticut, these damages can include:
If your loved one lost their life due to a delayed prostate cancer diagnosis, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim on their behalf.
Contact the attorneys at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, to discuss the details of your case and receive individualized legal guidance. No two cases are the same, and we create a tailored approach for each of our clients to ensure they have the best chance of a favorable outcome. We offer free consultations, so reach out to schedule yours today.
