Home / Health / Young Woman Denied Cancer Diagnosis: Doctors Said 'Too Young'
Young Woman Denied Cancer Diagnosis: Doctors Said 'Too Young'
7 Mar
Summary
- Gemma Doherty was repeatedly told she was too young for cancer.
- She experienced severe bleeding, dismissed as stress and hormones.
- A satsuma-sized cervical cancer lump was found after eight visits.
Gemma Doherty, a 39-year-old mother from Derby, faced repeated dismissals from her GP and A&E, being told she was "too young for cancer" despite severe bleeding. Her symptoms, including heavy, unpredictable bleeding, were attributed to "stress and hormones" by doctors at Lister House Surgery. Despite multiple visits between September last year and November, and four internal examinations, her concerns were not taken seriously.
Gemma's last smear test in April 2024 had been clear, which is unusual as the HPV cancer she was diagnosed with should have been detected. Frustrated by the ongoing bleeding and pain, she presented herself at the gynaecology ward at Royal Derby Hospital on November 26. Within days, a mass was found, leading to an urgent biopsy and MRI scan. By December 19, she received the diagnosis of stage 1 B3 cervical cancer, with a 5cm tumor.
The tumor is inoperable due to its location near her bladder and bowel, necessitating chemotherapy and radiotherapy. This treatment has also led to induced menopause and infertility. Gemma has been left house-bound, requiring assistance with daily tasks. She is now raising awareness about the importance of seeking medical attention for symptoms, even with a clear smear test, emphasizing that early action saves lives.
