“Cancer picked the wrong fighter”: Dr. Punam Krishan turns diagnosis into a call for early checks

Dr Punam Krishan, the lively TV doctor who lit up Strictly Come Dancing screens last year, has opened up about a health battle few saw coming. Five months ago, the Glasgow GP discovered she has breast cancer after finding a lump during a routine self-check. Her candid Instagram post from a hospital bed, showing her post-surgery smile, hit fans hard but also lit a fire under the importance of early detection.

From dancefloor to diagnosis

Krishan first charmed audiences with her infectious energy on Strictly, nailing a Doctor Who-themed jive that had everyone talking. The 39-year-old, regular on This Morning-and Lorraine, built a reputation for straight-talking health advice delivered with warmth. Now she’s-flipping the script, sharing her own story to urge others to act. “Five months ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer,” she wrote. “It’s been a journey I never expected but one I’m tackling head on.“

She spotted the lump herself, caught it early–and moved fast through GP visits, scans and surgery. Chemo lies ahead, but her tone stays defiant. “Cancer picked the wrong fighter,” she posted, surrounded by flowers-and get-well messages. Fans poured in love, with one saying, “You’re a warrior, Doc. Thank you for the reminder to check ourselves.”Breast cancer touches one in eight women, often without warning until a check reveals trouble. Krishan’s timing feels perfect and echoes the call of the NHS for monthly self-exams, especially from age 40 or with family risks. She stresses checking breasts or chest for any lumps or visible signs (if any) no matter your profile: “Early detection saves lives,” her words ring clear.The GP knows the stats cold. Survival rates soar past 90% when caught early, dropping sharply if it spreads. Her platform amplifies that truth—turning personal shock into public good. Women shared stories in comments, some survivors, others newly vigilant. One mum wrote, “Doing my first check tonight because of you.”

Strength beyond the screen

Behind the TV polish lies real grit. Strictly showed her sparkle, but cancer reveals deeper resilience. Through treatment, Krishan is set to continue dishing out advice as she proves the point that doctors also have fears just like their patients. Krishan’s openness is quite effective in dismissing the stigma surrounding lumps, as she makes the point that lumps should not receive postponementsBut for those families watching a loved one wait in a waiting room or sit down for a scan, it is a reminder that they are not alone. Scans really do count. And with that typical fire as she battles chemo, Dr. Punam inspires us all, not just TV enthusiasts and dancers. Vigilance and strength, her struggle is now everybody’s struggle.