Following a BBC investigation that revealed shocking practices that took place in hospitals run by the County Durham and Darlington Foundation Trust (CDDFT), an audit was launched. How breast cancer was treated between January 2023 and February 2025 is being investigated. 640 reports from former patients are also being analyzed. It was found that medical errors were made in hundreds of cases.
Of the 514 cases analyzed so far, as many as 315 patients were injured, including 77 who suffered serious health damage. One person is also known to have died as a result of negligence. In several cases, the diagnosis of cancer was missed or delayed, which led to the further spread of the disease, reports The Independent.
Dramatic patient stories
One of the injured is 51-year-old Denise Howarth from County Durham. In February 2023, she was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer. She underwent lumpectomy and lymph node removal, but was advised to have a mastectomy during her follow-up visit. After surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy in September 2025, she received a call informing her that a mastectomy was not necessary.
They called me at home to tell me I didn't need to have my breast removed and that really blew me away, I was completely shocked," Ms Howarth said. I lost my self-confidence. I feel robbed. Losing a breast has a huge impact on a woman. I'm afraid I'll never be the same again, even though I try to be strong, she added.
The woman claims that the hospital's apology is definitely not enough. It changes lives, she noted.
There are more similar stories. Many patients emphasize that they trusted specialists, and the information about the unnecessary surgery was a blow that was difficult for them to come to terms with.
Possible extension of the audit
The authority responsible for managing local hospitals and medical facilities in the Durham and Darlington region admits there were serious failings.
"We are deeply moved by the women and families who have been harmed and let down by our service failures. We understand the enormous impact this has had, and we are clear that there were times when we as an entity should have listened more carefully and acted more quickly," Steve Russell, CEO of CDDFT, said in a statement.
After the scandal that broke out, changes were introduced in the functioning of breast disease departments, and an audit and identification of patients who may have been harmed was initiated. A decision is to be made on September 24 whether the review will be extended to cases dating back to 2015.
Doctor suspended
At the center of the case was surgical oncologist Amir Bhatti, who was head of the breast cancer team at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust from 2013 to 2024. The man cannot work as a doctor until the internal investigation is completed. The organization is also working with Durham Police, which is conducting its own investigation.
Last year, the BBC revealed that the organization had paid out almost £6 million over six years to private diagnostic and surgical clinics run by Bhatti.
Injured patients demand a public investigation
Rachel O'Connor of Hudgell Solicitors, which represents some of the injured women, called for a public inquiry.
Breast cancer treatment units should be places where patients can count on the highest level of care and support - from diagnostics and consultations to surgeries and further treatment. Unfortunately, this has not been the case for many years in facilities run by County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust. “Deep-rooted, systemic neglect has led to serious harm to many women,” she said.
The organization has launched a special hotline for people who have questions or concerns about the care they received for breast diseases. Its authorities assure that they will inform the public about the progress of the proceedings.
