New research has shown that doctors are too often failing to spot the side-effects of cancer treatment. The study, which was conducted by the government’s National Cancer Survivorship Initiative, shows that up to a quarter of those who have had treatment for cancer, are later diagnosed with another serious medical problem which has not been picked up by their GP.

It says that with about two million people in the UK having had some treatment for the disease, there will be up to half a million who will have suffered a debilitating side-effect, which includes osteoporosis, heart disease and bowel problems. A leading doctor has said that the research highlights a basic lack of knowledge about cancer as well as a lack of communication between GPs and hospital specialists.

Professor Jane Maher, medical director of Macmillan Cancer Support, said that patients were being put at risk through vital information not being communicated and the patient’s medical records not being marked clearly enough. As examples, she says that too many doctors are seemingly unaware that some forms of breast cancer can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, while a third of patients, who have treatment for cervical, bowel, prostate or bladder cancer are known to have later problems with their bowels or their urine function.

Professor Maher says that the survey shows that GPs are not recording whether a patient has had cancer treatment, partly because of a lack of communication with hospitals and also because they are failing to realise the importance of recording such information. An improved treatment summary is currently being trialled by the NHS and Macmillan which would see the oncologist explain more clearly the treatment and the risks associated with it.

Source:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/sep/25/cancer-patients-side-effects-treatment