When it comes to cancer, early diagnosis saves lives. Yet, for many young people in the UK, getting a timely diagnosis remains a challenge. Tragically, this was the case for Jessica Brady, a 27-year-old whose story has sparked a nationwide change in GP practice.
Jessica Brady’s story
Jessica Brady contacted her GP surgery around 20 times over six months, reporting symptoms such as abdominal pain, persistent coughing, vomiting, and weight loss. Despite her repeated concerns, she was reassured that nothing serious was wrong. At one point, she was even told her symptoms might be linked to long Covid.
By the time Jessica’s mother paid for a private consultation, the truth emerged: Jessica had stage 4 adenocarcinoma, an aggressive form of cancer. She died just three weeks later.
Jessica’s parents refused to let her death be in vain. Their campaign led to the introduction of Jess’s Rule, a new guideline designed to prevent similar tragedies.
What is Jess’s rule?
Rolled out across England in September 2025, Jess’s Rule aims to ensure that persistent, unexplained symptoms are never ignored. The principle is simple but powerful:
“Three strikes and rethink.”
If a patient has three appointments without a clear diagnosis or their symptoms worsen, GPs must:
- Reassess the case thoroughly
- Consider a face-to-face consultation
- Order further investigations
- Seek a second opinion or refer to a specialist
This rule is now part of NHS England’s best practice guidance and is supported by the Royal College of General Practitioners. It is designed to standardise care, reduce health inequalities, and save lives.
Why are young people at risk?
Cancer in young people is rare, but when it occurs, it is often aggressive. Unfortunately, symptoms can mimic less serious conditions, leading to delays. Research shows:
- Nearly 50% of 16–24-year-olds need three or more GP visits before being referred for cancer tests, compared to 20% of the general population.
- The average wait for diagnosis in teenagers is 8.7 weeks, and for bone cancer, it can be as long as 12.6 weeks.
These delays can mean the difference between a treatable condition and a terminal diagnosis.
The legal perspective
From a legal standpoint, a delayed cancer diagnosis can amount to clinical negligence. If a GP fails to investigate persistent symptoms or ignores red flags, and this leads to harm, patients (or their families) may have grounds for a claim.
Jess’s Rule could also influence future litigation. It sets a clear standard of care: after three consultations without a diagnosis, further action is required. Failure to follow this guidance could strengthen a claimant’s case.
What can patients do?
While Jess’s Rule is a step forward, patients and families should still advocate for themselves:
- Keep a record of symptoms and GP visits.
- Ask questions: “What else could this be?” or “Should I have further tests?”
- Seek a second opinion if symptoms persist.
If you believe your cancer diagnosis was delayed due to medical negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Our specialist clinical negligence team can help you understand your rights and pursue justice.
Final thoughts
Jessica Brady’s story is heartbreaking, but her legacy will save lives. Jess’s Rule is a vital reminder that persistent symptoms should never be dismissed, regardless of age.
If you or a loved one has experienced a delay in cancer diagnosis, contact our expert team today for a free, confidential discussion.
How can we help?
Carolle White is a Legal Director and Chartered Legal Executive in our expert Medical Negligence team, which is ranked in Tier One by the independently researched publication, The Legal 500, and Commended in The Times Best Law Firms 2025. Carolle specialises in high-value and complex medical negligence cases and inquests.
If you require any advice in relation to the subjects discussed in this article, please do not hesitate to contact Carolle or another member of the team in Derby, Leicester, or Nottingham on 0800 024 1976 or via our online enquiry form.
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