NHS trust to reexamine 4,500 breast cancer cases after unnecessary surgeries found
The County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust is reviewing 4,500 breast cancer cases following reports of delayed diagnoses and unnecessary surgeries. Hospital leadership has issued a formal apology for the systemic failings that occurred between 2015 and 2023.
Why it matters
This highlights significant patient safety concerns and the necessity of accountability within public healthcare systems.
Published 24 September 2026, 09:47 BST Updated 3 minutes ago Hospital chiefs in County Durham have agreed to review up to a further 4,500 breast cancer cases after failings including delayed diagnoses and unnecessary surgeries were found.
Hundreds of patients suffered harm under County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, according to a review of cases dating back to 2023.
The BBC has spoken to multiple women affected by the failings , including one who said she felt "mutilated" and the trust's mistakes were "absolutely unforgivable".
Ahead of agreeing to expand the review to cases dating back to 2015, members of the trust's board offered "sincere" apologies for the failings and harm caused.
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