As a firm, we are proud to be able to work with and support a number of charitable organisations both locally and nationally, one of which is Melanoma UK.
We have a particularly close relationship with Melanoma UK as our Head of Clinical Negligence, Paula Bridge, is also a Trustee of the charity, and as such our firm has developed a particular speciality in claims relating to negligent cancer treatment.
The charity provides invaluable support for those diagnosed with Melanoma as well as providing practical and emotional support for the families of those with the condition.
What is melanoma?
According to Melanoma UK, melanoma is the 5th most common cancer in the UK, with over 16,000 people diagnosed each year. One of the most common signs or symptoms associated with melanoma is the appearance of a new mole or a change in an existing one.
When identifying what you need to look out for, The National Cancer Institute recommends a system called ‘ABCDE’:
Asymmetry
This means that the shape of one half of the suspected melanoma doesn’t match the other half.
Border
If the border of a mole or piece of soft tissue has a ragged edge or is notched or has an undefined outline it may be cancerous and the pigment may also spread to the surrounding skin.
Colour
If the skin has black, brown, white, grey, red, blue or pink then you should seek the advice of a medical professional.
Diameter
Where Melanoma is present there is usually an increase in size of the affected tissue.
Evolving
The mole changes over the course of the previous few weeks or months.
Cancer Research has also discovered that whilst the risk of being diagnosed with melanoma increases with age, melanoma is actually one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among 15-34 year olds.
You can discover more about melanoma by visiting Melanoma UK’s overview of this type of cancer by clicking here.
The statistics
As we have already outlined, over 16,000 are diagnosed with melanoma in the UK each year and with 7 people dying each day, which is the equivalent to over 2,000 people per year.
Melanoma also accounts for more than a quarter of skin cancer cases diagnosed in people under 50 according to the NHS.
How can Melanoma UK help?
Melanoma UK has established itself as a ‘critical friend’ for both patients and their families. They have a national reputation for providing outstanding support to patients with melanoma as well as helping them secure the best possible treatment.
As well as assisting patients throughout their cancer treatment and beyond, Melanoma UK also aims to provide funds for vital research to prolong and preserve the quality of life of patients who are diagnosed with melanoma as well as raising awareness of the dangers and symptoms of melanoma.
You can learn more about how Melanoma UK can help you by clicking here.
How can Thorneycroft Solicitors help?
Our clinical negligence solicitors are specialists in their field and have a particular specialism in cancer misdiagnosis claims.
Correct and prompt diagnosis is essential if patients of melanoma are to have the best possible chance of recovery or securing the treatment they need to ensure the highest quality of life.
Our solicitors pride themselves on providing clients and their families with the emotional and practical support they need following their diagnosis and work with leading medical experts during the course of your claim and beyond.
If you believe you have suffered as a result of a delayed or misdiagnosis, our team are here to help.
Call us for free today on 0800 1979 345 to arrange your free initial consultation where our medical negligence solicitors will assess your claim and advise you on what steps you should take next.
You can also arrange for a member of our team to call you back at a more suitable time by completing our online enquiry form by clicking here
