Alan Woodward surgical group

16/04/2026

Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK – and cases are rising in people under 50.

If you're not yet part of the NHS screening programme, that makes knowing the warning signs even more important. Symptoms like re**al bleeding, a persistent change in bowel habits, unexplained bloating, or unintentional weight loss should never be put off or put down to something less serious without proper assessment.

The good news is that bowel cancer is highly treatable when caught early.

Mr Alan Woodward sees patients experiencing exactly these kinds of symptoms and offers fast, thorough, and discreet private assessment, including colonoscopy where appropriate.

Our new article covers the key bowel cancer warning signs:

https://awsg.co.uk/news/bowel-cancer-warning-signs/

04/03/2026

Not all groin pain is a simple strain, especially if it is stopping you from training or playing sport. In his latest article, Consultant Surgeon Mr Alan Woodward explains how imaging such as ultrasound and MRI can help diagnose sports hernias and related injuries that do not always show up on a physical examination.

In this article you will learn:
✅ When imaging is helpful for groin or sports related injuries
✅ How scans distinguish between muscle strains, core injuries and hernias
✅ Why an accurate diagnosis matters before considering surgery

If you have ongoing groin pain that is not settling with rest or physiotherapy, this article explains when further investigation may be needed. Read more - https://awsg.co.uk/news/when-imaging-helps-with-sports-hernias/

04/02/2026

New studies suggest that eating a lot of ultra-processed foods – like ready meals, crisps, sugary drinks, and packaged snacks – may raise the risk of developing colore**al cancer.

If you’re concerned about long-term digestive health or have family history of bowel cancer, this is an important read. We break down:

✔️ What ultra-processed foods are
✔️ How they may affect your gut health
✔️ Why a balanced diet matters for colore**al cancer risk

> https://awsg.co.uk/news/ultra-processed-foods-and-colore**al-cancer/

12/01/2026

Not all lumps and bumps need surgery, but some do. Whether it’s a growing lump, one that’s painful, changing in shape, or just won’t go away, it’s important to know when it’s time to get it checked.

In his latest article, Mr Alan Woodward explains:

– Common types of skin lumps and bumps
– Signs that warrant a surgical assessment
– What happens during an excision procedure
– How removing a lump can give you peace of mind

Early assessment can make all the difference.

Read the full article here:

For expert assessment of lumps and bumps and to discuss options including private excision with flexible appointment times, get in touch.

02/12/2025

Losing weight quickly – whether through dieting, weight-loss injections, or intense training – can have surprising effects on your gallbladder. One of the most common complications is gallstones, which can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea and, in some cases, require surgery.

In the latest article, we look at:

⦁ Why gallstones form during rapid weight loss
⦁ Who is most at risk
⦁ Key symptoms you shouldn’t ignore

If you’re on a weight-loss journey or experiencing new digestive symptoms, this is an important read. >
https://awsg.co.uk/news/rapid-weight-loss-and-gallstone-risk/

06/11/2025

Persistent groin pain with no visible or obvious cause can be frustrating and difficult to diagnose. In our latest blog, we look at why modern imaging, such as ultrasound and MRI, plays a crucial role in distinguishing between hidden hernias, muscle/tendon injuries, and other causes.

Accurate imaging helps tailor the right treatment path: whether surgical repair, physiotherapy, or another specialist referral.

If you’ve been struggling with groin pain that’s not improving, this could be the link you need. Read more > https://awsg.co.uk/news/imaging-for-groin-pain-before-hernia-surgery/

06/10/2025

Padel has exploded in popularity across the UK. Sudden twists, lunges and rapid direction changes can strain the groin muscles or even lead to a sports hernia (Gilmore’s groin).

In our latest article, we look at:

✅ Why groin pain is increasingly common among padel players
✅ The difference between a simple muscle strain and a sports hernia
✅ When surgical treatment may be needed

If you’re an active padel player and struggling with persistent groin pain, it’s worth getting checked.

Take a look at the article here > https://awsg.co.uk/news/can-you-get-a-groin-injury-from-padel/

15/09/2025

Gallstones are increasingly becoming an issue for women in their 20s and 30s. While traditionally seen as a condition that’s most likely to affect women over 40, changing lifestyles and hormonal influences mean that younger women are now at greater risk than ever before.

Find out more in the latest news article - https://awsg.co.uk/news/why-are-we-seeing-more-gallstones-in-younger-women/

07/08/2025

Considering or already on rapid weight loss injections like Mounjaro or Ozempic? While the results can be life-changing, there’s a hidden downside – an increased risk of gallstones. These medications, plus extreme diets or quick weight-loss methods, can disrupt bile balance in your gallbladder and lead to complications.

In the latest blog, we look at the latest research, the symptoms to watch out for, what gallbladder removal involves and what you can do to help protect yourself.

Read the news article here - https://awsg.co.uk/news/rapid-weight-loss-and-gallstones/

21/07/2025

Sports hernias often go undiagnosed for extended periods, leaving athletes frustrated and off their game. The persistent groin discomfort can linger on, and the pain may worsen with activities like running, twisting, or even coughing and sneezing.

Muscle injuries typically heal with rest, strengthening, and physiotherapy over several weeks. In contrast, sports hernia pain often stubbornly persists or quickly returns as soon as you resume intensive exercise.

Read the latest blog to find out more about groin pain and sports hernia:
https://awsg.co.uk/news/groin-pain-and-sports-hernias/

Get your groin pain assessed today! Call 07897 065850 for an appointment.

05/06/2025

Noticed a lump or bump? Don’t ignore it.

It’s natural to feel concerned when you spot an unusual lump, bump under your skin, or a changing mole – but when should you get it checked?

In our latest article, Consultant General Surgeon Mr Alan Woodward explains what to look out for, when a lump might need surgical excision, and why early assessment is key to ruling out anything serious.

Read the full article here > https://awsg.co.uk/news/lumps-and-bumps-when-should-you-see-a-surgeon/

08/05/2025

🩺 Why are colonoscopies important for haemorrhoid patients?

The latest article explains how a colonoscopy can do more than just confirm haemorrhoids, it can help rule out serious conditions like bowel cancer and ensure you get the right treatment. If you're dealing with re**al bleeding or ongoing symptoms, this quick and effective procedure could be a vital step in your care.

Read more: https://awsg.co.uk/news/the-importance-of-colonoscopies-for-haemorrhoid-patients