Each year more than one hundred forty eight thousand men and women are diagnosed with colon cancer. Each year more than fifty five thousand individuals die from the disease. Colon cancer deaths are the result of the spread of the cancer.If diagnosed early cancer of the colon is for the most part considered curable. When the diagnosis comes early enough the cancer is simply removed during a colonoscopy while it is still a mere polyp.

Even with the many attempts to educate the public regarding colon cancer screening many people still do not undergo screening procedures, such as a colonoscopy. Sometimes people refuse to undergo the procedure even though their physician recommends it. Yet there are still times when physicians who do not recommend colon screening to their patients. This sometimes happens even when the patient complains of signs consistent with colon cancer. Even though they do not do any testing, these physicians sometimes assure their patients that their symptoms are merely due to hemorrhoids.

Should the physicians do this and the patient is later found to have metastatic colon cancer that physicians may be liable for medical malpractice. Yet, every year about thirty seven percent (or roughly 54,750 people) already have advanced cancer of the colon by the time they are diagnosed, and nineteen percent (about 28,000 people) already have distant metastasis by the time they are diagnosed. A diagnosis of advanced colon cancer means a much reduced five year survival rate.

If you or a member of your family have been diagnosed with metastatic cancer of the colon and you believe that the diagnosis was delayed because a doctor failed to recommend colon cancer screening or failed to follow up on complaints of colon cancer symptoms an attorney experienced in cancer law can help you determine if there may be a medical malpractice claim. In certain circumstances a medical negligence lawyer may be able to assist the family.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.

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