Jessica Brady and Jon Kay on BBC Breakfast

Host of BBC Breakfast Jon Kay shared the sad news of a heartbreaking death during today’s (September 23) show.

For Tuesday morning’s programme, the show discussed 27-year-old Jessica Brady, who died from cancer just weeks after her diagnosis.

“GPs in England are being urged to think again if they’re struggling to diagnose a patient after three appointments,” Jon shared.

“It’s part of new NHS guidance called Jess’s Rule, named after 27-year-old Jessica Brady, who died from stage four cancer after contacting her doctor more than 20 times to try to get a diagnosis.”

Jon Kay presenting BBC Breakfast
Jon revealed 27-year-old Jessica Brady died weeks after her cancer diagnosis (Credit: BBC)

BBC Breakfast host announces heartbreaking death

After showing a clip that featured Jessica, BBC Breakfast’s health correspondent, Dominic Hughes, added: “Jessica Brady was a talented engineer at Airbus involved in the design of satellites.”

Before her tragic death, Jess had begun to feel unwell in 2020.

“Over the course of more than 20 GP appointments, she was told her symptoms were related to long COVID and that she was too young for cancer,” Dominic continued.

“Finally, a private specialist diagnosed stage four cancer, but by this time, it was too late. Jessica died just three weeks later at the age of 27.”

Jessica Brady's mum
Jessica’s mum launches NHS guidance called Jess’s Rule (Credit: BBC)

‘GPs will also be encouraged to seek second opinions’

Since her death, Jessica’s mother, Andrea, has been campaigning to improve GPs’ awareness and the diagnosis of cancer. Dominic stated that “the introduction of Jess’s Rule is a big step forward”.

“Under Jess’s Rule, GPs will be asked to think again if, after three appointments, they haven’t been able to offer a firm diagnosis or the patient’s symptoms have escalated,” Dominic said.

“That might mean arranging a face-to-face consultation, a thorough physical examination, or more diagnostic tests.

“GPs will also be encouraged to seek second opinions from colleagues, review patient records, and consider specialist referrals. The hope is that Jess’s Rule will save lives and help catch serious conditions earlier, particularly in young people.”