Teen Dies After Doctors Missed Cancer Lump

A 17-year-old girl, Isla Sneddon, lost her life to breast cancer after medical professionals initially attributed a lump she found at age 15 to hormonal changes. This dismissal, compounded by a downgraded biopsy referral due to her age, meant a critical delay in diagnosis.

By the time Isla was diagnosed, her cancer had metastasized to her lungs, heart, and lymph nodes. Her family was informed she had only six months to a year to live. Despite receiving care in various Scottish hospitals, the cancer was too advanced for effective treatment.

Isla's parents, Mark and Michelle, are now campaigning to establish 'Isla's Law.' This proposed legislation aims to mandate that urgent paediatric cancer referrals be subject to the same maximum wait times as adult referrals. They believe this change could prevent other families from enduring similar heartbreak.

Scottish Health Secretary Neil Gray has acknowledged the family's concerns and stated his intention to meet with them. He noted that updated referral guidelines for suspected cancer, including a new guideline for children and young people, were published on August 6, 2026. NHS Lanarkshire has expressed condolences and stated that Isla's treatment followed expected clinical pathways.