Woman Diagnosed with Lobular Breast Cancer After GP Dismissed Her Concerns as Anxiety
Beth Jenkins, 42, was told she was “too young” for breast cancer, but later learned she had a 5 cm tumour that had spread to three lymph nodes.
Wow! A 42‑year‑old mother from Merthyr Tydfil finally received the diagnosis she feared when a GP dismissed her breast lump as “medical anxiety.”
Beth Jenkins first felt a “small pea‑sized” lump in 2018. An ultrasound at the time suggested it was glandular tissue, and no biopsy was performed.
Years later, after giving birth to her daughter Robyn, a kick to her chest made the lump “massive.” In October 2024, Jenkins visited her practice, 1 Keir Hardie Health Park, and was told, at age 40, she was “too young” to have breast cancer and that the swelling might be linked to postnatal depression or an infection. She was prescribed antibiotics.
“I haven’t got medical anxiety, otherwise I’d be up the hospital and doctors’ every week,” Jenkins said.
Two weeks after that appointment, while taking her baby to a separate appointment, she asked a female GP to review her notes. The doctor advised her to submit an e‑consult, stating she should have been referred straight away.
Following the e‑consult, the same locum doctor called her back, noting she was still “a bit anxious” about the lump. Jenkins insisted it was not anxiety but a non‑infectious problem that needed urgent attention.
Further investigations revealed lobular breast cancer, external, with a tumour measuring 5 cm (2 in) and spread to three lymph nodes.
Practice 1 Keir Hardie Health Park declined to discuss the individual case but urged patients to “make a second appointment” if they have lingering concerns about their health or care.
Jenkins said the diagnosis made her instantly think of her children.
What a stark reminder that listening to patients can save lives.
