Baljit Singh is ESCP's Journal Representative and Consultant Colorectal Surgeon and Honorary Associate Professor at University Hospitals Leicester, UK
Current position and hospital: Consultant Colorectal Surgeon and Honorary Associate Professor, University Hospitals Leicester, UK
ESCP Executive position: Journal Representative
Main clinical and research interests: Biomarkers for the early detection of colorectal cancer; use of FIT for symptomatic patients; new techniques for the treatment of anal fistula; treatment of rectal cancer
Twitter handle: @bjsinghmd
What made you want to specialise in colorectal surgery?
I have always enjoyed the variety of cases in colorectal surgery. It is also a speciality where there has been a rapid growth in new technologies which have had a huge impact in the treatment of patients.
What is the best part of the job?
The teamwork and interaction with different specialities including radiology, oncology and anaesthetics to name a few. It is always very rewarding to meet and hear from patients and surgeons from different countries both to learn and share experiences.
How long have you been involved in ESCP and what made you want to become involved?
I came as a trainee to the ESCP meeting in 2007 and have gradually become more involved with the society. I am a member of the Education Committee and since 2018 I have been the Journal Representative.
What do you value most about being involved in ESCP?
Meeting surgeons and trainees from across Europe and beyond. ESCP has a strong emphasis on research, education and training of colorectal surgeons. It has developed global links with colorectal societies offering even more opportunities to all its members. The society also has a strong focus on diversity and inclusion.
Could you tell us your best ESCP conference anecdote?
Challenge the idea 'we’ve always done it this way in our department….'
If you had one bit of advice for younger surgeons starting their career in colorectal surgery what would it be?
Join ESCP! There are so many opportunities to become involved from Y-ESCP, cohort studies and congress workshops. Also the fellowship opportunities, which suit surgeons at all levels, offer excellent training opportunities.
