How Often Does Cancer Misdiagnosis Occur?

How often are cancers misdiagnosed?

Cancer misdiagnosis is one of the things that patients worry about the most. It is a serious disease and any mishaps could cost them valuable time and money. When it comes to our health, we do not have much room for shortcomings and underestimating the matter. But should we really spend our time stressing out and wondering if we've been misdiagnosed? Is it really that common?

What do the statistics say?

It is estimated that 10 to 20 percent of all cancer cases are misdiagnosed, and of these, around 30 percent are life-threatening or health-threatening. It is also estimated that 40,000 people die every year due to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. Therefore, the fear of misdiagnosis is well-founded. There are many factors that can cause a doctor to diagnose cancer in a perfectly healthy person or to tell someone who is sick that they are okay. The main causes of poor tumor diagnosis are misinterpretation of symptoms and the use of inappropriate diagnostic tools.

What cancers are diagnosed most often?

The most commonly diagnosed cancers are breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, and thyroid cancer. This is mainly because the symptoms of these cancers are remarkably similar to those of other more common (and less dangerous) conditions. Breast cancer can be confused with a cyst, lung cancer with asthma or tuberculosis, and pancreatic cancer with irritable bowel syndrome, pancreatitis, or gallstones. Rare tumors or types of cancer can also be misdiagnosed.

How to prevent misdiagnosis?

If you have just been diagnosed and are not 100% sure it is correct, there are a few things you can do. First, you can ask your doctor to do more tests. This may entail additional costs, but may reveal additional information that could prove crucial. Second, make sure you share your medical history with your doctor, there are certain factors that increase your risk of developing cancer, and it is beneficial for you and your doctor to consider them when making a diagnosis. Finally, you can get a second opinion somewhere else. Obtaining the opinion and diagnosis of another specialist may reveal inconsistencies and allow for a second, more accurate diagnosis, or it may simply reassure you and your doctor that you are being treated in the best possible way. About 80 to 90 percent of patients who get a second opinion come out with an altered or refined diagnosis.

What else is worth remembering?

In conclusion, misdiagnosis is relatively common and can be harmful to your health, so it cannot be taken lightly. There are many things you can do to avoid living with a misdiagnosed cancer. Be open and honest with your doctor and consult other specialists. If you are concerned about your diagnosis, it also doesn't hurt to read about your tumor and its symptoms.