County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust has admitted that around 20 women underwent unnecessary mastectomies while being treated for breast cancer. The patients had their breasts removed at the trust's breast unit and are among hundreds reported to have come to harm.
The National Crime Agency and Durham Police have launched an investigation to determine whether any criminal offences have taken place. The trust is carrying out an internal review of breast cancer cases between January 2023 and February 2025, following reports last November of serious failures in the unit, which included other needless surgeries.
Victims speak out
Denise Howarth told the BBC she was informed by the NHS that her breast was removed unnecessarily and says she feels failed by the health service. "I was just in shock, I was in tears on the phone when they told me," she said. "They just said sorry. I couldn't believe what they were saying. An apology doesn't give me the answers I need. It can't give me my breasts back."
CDDFT's chief executive Steve Russell apologises "unreservedly" for the damage the trust has caused. Asked how many women had been impacted, he said: "Our latest information suggests it is around 20. I don't personally know why this happened, and sadly there is nothing we can do to change what happened to them. There are no words to describe how personally distressed I am, and my colleagues are, by the outcome, and the harm those women experienced. What happened was utterly unacceptable."
Review and support
CDDFT has begun its review of breast cancer cases, alongside the cases of 640 former patients who contacted a helpline. The BBC reports that of 514 cases reviewed already, 315 patients have been found to have suffered harm, including 77 who were "significantly" harmed. It is understood that one patient died.
In a statement, the trust's CEO Mr Russell said: "We are deeply sorry to the women and families who have been harmed and let down by failings in our breast services. We recognise the profound impact this has had and have been clear that there were opportunities when, as a trust, we should have listened more carefully and acted sooner."
"Significant changes have since been made to the breast service and are bringing improvements for patients. Alongside this, the look-back continues to review past care, identify patients who may have experienced harm and make sure they receive appropriate information and support."
"On September 24, our trust board will meet in public to consider the future scope and timeframe of the look-back. No final decision has been made and it would not be right to pre-empt the board's discussion. We will continue to be open about this work and will provide a further update following the meeting."
The trust's dedicated support line remains available to anyone with concerns about their breast care on 0191 333 2126 or at cddft.breastservices@nhs.net.
