Meet The Consultant: Raising Awareness of Bowel Cancer with Mr Rajaganeshan
As part of Bowel Cancer Awareness Month, the latest episode of Meet The Consultant with Spire Cheshire Hospital shines a spotlight on a condition that affects thousands of people across the UK every year.
This month, we’re joined by Mr Rajasundaram Rajaganeshan – known to many as Mr Raja – Consultant General, Laparoscopic Surgeon and Proctologist, who shares expert insight into bowel cancer, the symptoms to look out for, and why early detection really can save lives.
Bowel cancer is now the fourth most common cancer diagnosed in the UK, with women slightly more at risk. While that may sound concerning, there is very encouraging news too. When caught early, bowel cancer is highly treatable, with up to 90% of cases successfully cured. It’s a powerful reminder that paying attention to your body and seeking advice early can make all the difference.
In the podcast, Mr Raja talks openly about the signs and symptoms people should never ignore – including persistent changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, abdominal pain, or blood in your stool. Just as importantly, he addresses the stigma that can sometimes prevent people from speaking up. Quite simply, these are conversations worth having – and doctors like Mr Raja are there to help, not judge.
Mr Raja is an established consultant surgeon specialising in laparoscopic and colorectal surgery, offering both minimally invasive and open procedures for a wide range of conditions. His expertise includes hernia repairs and coloproctological treatments, with a particular focus on proctology. In fact, he has treated one of the largest numbers of patients in the country using the innovative VAAFT procedure.
He is also highly experienced in managing chronic fissures, haemorrhoids – including the Rafaelo procedure, which can be performed without anaesthetic – and pelvic floor conditions. Passionate about improving patients’ quality of life, Mr Raja is at the forefront of introducing new treatments for conditions such as faecal incontinence and chronic constipation, as well as supporting patients with IBS using innovative, patient-centred approaches.
His message this Bowel Cancer Awareness Month is clear: don’t ignore symptoms, don’t delay getting checked, and don’t let embarrassment stand in the way of your health.
A simple conversation could be the first step towards reassurance – or even life-saving treatment.