· · Single source

Twenty women had unnecessary breast removals at a north-east England NHS trust

The County Durham and Darlington foundation trust admitted that twenty women underwent unnecessary mastectomies while receiving cancer treatment.

Twenty women had breasts removed unnecessarily during NHS cancer care
File photo Twenty women had breasts removed unnecessarily during NHS cancer care Photo: The Guardian

Trust admits patient harm

The County Durham and Darlington foundation trust told the BBC about these specific cases. This admission follows a broader report last year finding more than 200 patients suffered harm at the unit. The broadcaster noted that the National Crime Agency is working with Durham police to investigate allegations.

Leaders express deep regret

Steve Russell, chief executive of the trust, issued a public apology to the affected women and families. He stated that significant changes have been made to the breast service to improve patient care. The look-back process continues to review past records to identify other patients who may have experienced harm.

Board considers future scope

The trust board will meet in public on September 24 to discuss the timeframe of the review. No final decision has been made regarding the extent of this investigation yet. The organization remains committed to being open about its findings and actions.

Reported by one outlet

Only one outlet has published this. Nothing here has been checked against a second report, so read it as that outlet's account and follow the link below for the original.

Reported by

1 independent outlet. Headline as published. Links open the original report.