BOWEL cancer is the second biggest cancer killer in the UK. Each year around 35,000 people are diagnosed with the disease and, according to the latest figures from the Office of National Statistics, about 3,600 of these patients are being assessed and treated in the south west.

Bowel cancer can be completely curable if caught and treated in time, so it is crucial that everything possible is done to raise awareness about the symptoms of the condition and get people to seek advice as soon as possible even if they find it embarrassing. This is why BUPA is supporting Beating Bowel Cancer's Loud Tie Week, which starts on Sunday.

We advise anyone who has noticed a change in their bowel habits, bleeding, or unexplained anaemia to seek medical advice. Raising awareness will save lives and I will certainly be wearing my loudest tie.

Dr Andrew Vallance-Owen, Group medical director, BUPA