The family of a man who died from prostate cancer after care failings led to a nine-year delay in diagnosis have described their loss as “devastating”.
Terry Adams, from South Kirby, near Pontefract, first visited his GP surgery with symptoms in 2012 but wasn’t diagnosed until 2021, by which point the cancer had spread and become incurable.
His wife Diane said the 68-year-old former security guard “should never have suffered like he did” before his death in September 2024.
Two GPs involved in his care have admitted a “breach of duty” and previously apologised via their legal team for the “devastating impact the delay in diagnosis and treatment” had on Terry and his family.
Terry, who had a family history of prostate cancer, first visited his GP with urinary problems and pain in his lower back and legs in March 2012.
Four months later, the great-grandfather made a second appointment with Dr Douglas Diggle, at The Health Centre on Little Lane in South Elmsall, due to ongoing symptoms.
A blood test was arranged that revealed a raised prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level, which can indicate problems.
A routine referral was made to see a specialist, which was arranged by the hospital for 8 October, but Terry’s family said he didn’t attend because he never received the appointment letter.
Two days later, a hospital consultant wrote to Terry’s GP surgery, noting the family history of prostate cancer and raised PSA level.
The letter stated: “I think Mr Adams needs an urgent biopsy of his prostate” and advised that he be referred via a “fast-track” clinic if Terry agreed.
However, during a follow-up appointment with a second GP, Dr Emmanuel Okine, no referral was made.
A note on Terry’s medical record stated: “Patient made appointment to see me but there is nothing new”, and a plan was made to review him when necessary.
