Dr Natalie Direkze

MBBS, MA (Hons), PhD, FRCP

Dr Natalie Direkze is a Consultant Gastroenterologist and General Physician at St Mary’s Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, specialising in luminal gastroenterology, inflammatory bowel disease, and upper gastrointestinal disorders.

Natalie is an experienced endoscopist, accredited by the National Bowel Cancer Screening Programme as a colonoscopist, and performs gastroscopy, colonoscopy, and capsule endoscopy.

With a strong background in clinical research, Dr Direkze has contributed to studies on IBD, gastrointestinal cancer, and food-related quality of life in IBD patients. She completed a Natural Sciences degree at Cambridge University, followed by medical training at St Mary’s Hospital and a PhD in stem cell biology and pancreatic cancer at Cancer Research UK. Dr Direkze has held consultant posts at Frimley Park Hospital and St Mary’s, where she continues to practise and contribute to medical education.

As part of Thrive4Life’s trusted network of specialist speakers, Dr Natalie Direkze led an engaging lunchtime talk on “Gut Feelings: Expert Advice on Colon Health and Colonoscopies.” She highlighted the importance of spotting early bowel symptoms, explained the colonoscopy process, and shared practical tips for maintaining gut health. Attendees left informed and empowered to take charge of their digestive wellbeing.