I was told I was too young to have cancer - it had spread by the time I was diagnosed
Summary
Beth Jenkins, 42, from Merthyr Tydfil, said a GP initially dismissed her concerns about a breast lump, which was later diagnosed as lobular breast cancer. By her diagnosis in November 2024, the cancer had spread to three lymph nodes; she had a mastectomy and further treatment and is now monitored for 15 years.Key Facts
- Jenkins first noticed a small lump in 2018 and was told after an ultrasound that it was likely glandular tissue; no biopsy was done.
- In October 2024, she sought medical help after the lump had grown significantly.
- Jenkins said a locum GP told her she was too young for breast cancer and suggested the lump could be linked to infection or medical anxiety.
- A second GP advised Jenkins to submit an online consultation and said she should have been referred straight away.
- Jenkins was diagnosed on 14 November 2024 with a 5cm tumour and cancer in three lymph nodes.
- She underwent a mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and experienced neutropenic sepsis, a serious infection associated with low levels of certain white blood cells.
- Jenkins said she has no current evidence of disease and will be monitored for 15 years.
- Keir Hardie Health Park said it could not comment on individual cases and encouraged patients with concerns to make a second appointment.
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