“Women Who Work Nights Twice as Likely to Develop Breast Cancer, Implications for Cancer Misdiagnosis” Say Asons Solicitors.
Bolton, UK (PRWEB UK) 9 July 2013 -- Controversial research published this week claims that women who work night shifts for thirty years or more, have an increased risk of developing breast cancer (1). While this research has negative connotations, hopes are that raised awareness will decrease the incidence of breast cancer misdiagnosis.
The research, led by the Queen’s University in Kingston, examined 1,134 women with breast cancer and 1,179 women without the disease, but of the same age (2). Details were taken regarding their work and shift patterns, with researchers further confirming their results by examining hospital records.
The report concluded that women who worked long-term night-shifts were twice as likely to develop breast cancer, in comparison to those who worked daytime hours (1).
It is believed, as reported in the Daily Express, that the link between breast cancer and night work could be attributed to a disturbance in melatonin levels. Frequently referred to as the 'sleep hormone' - melatonin is thought to possess anti- cancer qualities. Those who don’t experience the normal sleep-wake cycle have diminished levels of the hormone, in theory, increasing their risk of developing breast cancer (1).
Commenting on the study, Asons Executive Laura Williams, made the following statement:
“Many healthcare professionals work nights out of necessity, to ensure care is available twenty four seven for those who need help; It is upsetting to think that these women are unintentionally increasing their risk of developing breast cancer.
"Despite this, I would like to believe, that this increased risk will lower the incidence of breast cancer mis-diagnosis. Hopefully, when a woman who works nights displays symptoms of breast cancer, alarm bells will ring and diagnosis will be prompt.
"Cancer misdiagnosis has devastating effects. A delay to diagnosis can take away a sufferer’s fighting chance, as their cancer may become too progressive for treatment to be effective. While this research can be perceived as negative, perhaps it has a silver lining, women who work nights may now be more aware of the risks posed to them.”
In the event that you consider yourself to have been subject to cancer misdiagnosis, you must seek legal advice as quickly as possible. Taking action can prevent the same situation from reoccurring, helping others to avoid injury in future.
If you, or someone you know, have suffered as a result of breast cancer misdiagnosis then you may be able to make a claim for cancer misdiagnosis compensation. Asons Solicitors deal with medical negligence claims on a regular basis, you can contact them on: 0844 850 1062 or you can fill out their claim form at http://www.asons.co.uk
-Sources-
(1) WebMD, “Working Nights Raises Breast Cancer Risk” (02/07/13)
webmd.boots.com/breast-cancer/news/20130702/night-shifts-breast-cancer
(2) The Independent, “Working at Night Raise Breast Cancer Risk, Warns New Research” (01/07/2013)
independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/working-at-nights-raises-breast-cancer-risk-warns-new-research-8682363.html?origin=internalSearch
(3) The Daily Express, “Working night shifts can increase your risk of cancer”, (02/07/2013)
express.co.uk/news/health/411778/Working-night-shifts-can-increase-your-risk-of-cancer
About Asons Solicitors:
Asons Solicitors is a Bolton-based law practice that specialises in personal injury and industrial disease claims. Founded by brothers Imran Akram and Kamran Akram, Asons Solicitors has developed to become a young and dynamic law firm that delivers practical solutions to clients in times of difficulty. Their continued focus on their staff has seen them awarded with the Investors in People “Gold Award”; which is reflected in the professional and personable approach they take in working with clients. They strive to grow and to develop, and their supportiveness and attention to detail ensures that their clients use them time and again.
For further information contact:
Email: info (at) asons (dot) co.uk
Website: http://www.asons.co.uk
John King, Asons Solicitors, http://www.asons.co.uk, 08448 408 012, [email protected]
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