Twenty women had breasts removed unnecessarily during NHS cancer care

Patients among hundreds who suffered harm at County Durham and Darlington foundation trust’s breast unit

Twenty women had their breasts removed unnecessarily while being treated for cancer at an NHS trust in north-east England.

The County Durham and Darlington foundation trust (CDDFT) told the BBC that the women were among hundreds of patients who came to harm during treatment at its breast unit.

The admission came after the BBC reported last year that more than 200 patients were found to have suffered harm at the CDDFT .

The broadcaster reported that the National Crime Agency was working with Durham police to investigate allegations by former patients and determine if any criminal offences had taken place.

Steve Russell, who was appointed chief executive of CDDFT last year, 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.

“Our dedicated support line remains available to anyone with concerns about their breast care on 0191 333 2126 or at [email protected].”

CDDFT is conducting an internal review of breast cancer cases between January 2023 and February 2025, as well as 640 former patients who contacted a special helpline.

The BBC reported that of 514 cases reviewed by the trust so far, 315 patients have been found to have suffered harm, including 77 who were significantly harmed. One patient is known to have died.