Women affected by breast cancer screening failures take claims to court

The first affected women in Andalucía initiate legal actions after the recognition of errors in the early detection program.

Generic image of legal documents and a gavel, symbolizing judicial claims.
IA

Generic image of legal documents and a gavel, symbolizing judicial claims.

A group of women affected by errors in the breast cancer screening program in Andalucía has begun filing patrimonial claims in court, seeking justice for delays in their diagnoses.

Cristina Fernández, one of the 2,317 Andalusian women recognized by the Junta de Andalucía as affected by failures in breast cancer screening, expressed her determination to seek justice in the courts. Along with Anabel, who has already formalized her patrimonial claim in Sevilla, both expressed their bewilderment at the need to resort to legal action, given that the Junta itself admitted the error.

"We will see each other in front of a judge and we hope that justice will be done."

Cristina Fernández · Woman affected by breast cancer screening failures
From the courthouse in Sevilla, Ángela Claverol, president of the Amama association, sharply criticized the Junta's stance, calling it «cruelty» for forcing women into a judicial process. 160 claims have already been filed, reaching the six-month deadline since their formalization before the Andalusian Health Service (SAS) between April and May.

"I don't know how I'm going to face this. I had to sell my house. I don't have money, but I'm here for those who will come after me."

Anabel · Woman affected by breast cancer screening failures
The testimonies of those affected reflect dramatic situations. Anabel shared her difficult economic situation, having had to sell her house and facing treatment after losing a breast. Chelo Martínez recounted the recent death of her mother, who was diagnosed late with breast cancer due to the same screening failures. Given this situation, Amama has called for participation in the Marea Blanca demonstrations this Sunday, emphasizing the importance of defending public healthcare.
For his part, Antonio Sanz, Minister of Health, Presidency, and Emergencies of the Junta de Andalucía, stated that claims to the SAS are not new in healthcare administration. During a visit to the hospital construction site in Motril, Granada, Sanz defended the «right» of those affected to take their complaints to court, emphasizing that his priority is «to work for the health of women» and that he will not question a fundamental right of citizens.