Dr Punam Krishan, a Glasgow-born GP, author, TV doctor on BBC’s Morning Live and former Strictly Come Dancing 2024 contestant, revealed that she was diagnosed with breast cancer five months prior to publicly sharing her story on Instagram on 4th January 2026.
Despite almost two decades of clinical experience delivering difficult diagnoses to patients, Dr Krishan stated that nothing prepared her for the emotional impact of hearing “you have cancer” as a patient herself.
She chose to keep her diagnosis private during treatment to preserve her emotional energy and protect her children, but has now completed her treatment and is currently in the recovery phase.
Dr Krishan emphasised that early detection likely played a critical role in her outcome and urged the public to trust their instincts and seek medical evaluation for unusual changes in the body.
Breast cancer is a condition where cells in the breast grow uncontrollably. It is among the most common cancers globally, especially among women, and is less common but still possible in men.
Early detection, through awareness of symptoms and appropriate screening increases the likelihood that breast cancer is found at a stage when treatment is more effective.
The CDC1and American Cancer Society2 list the following signs and symptoms associated with breast cancer (note: these can also result from non-cancerous conditions):
New lump or mass in the breast or under the arm (armpit).
Thickening or swelling of breast tissue.
Irritation or dimpling of the breast skin (sometimes resembling an orange peel).
Redness or flaky skin on the nipple or breast.
Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
Change in size or shape of the breast.
Pain or tenderness in any area of the breast.
Nipple retraction (turning inward).
Swollen lymph nodes under the arm or collarbone.
While most breast lumps are not cancer, any new or persistent change should prompt clinical evaluation.
Screening Tests: Imaging such as mammography can detect breast cancer before symptoms arise, especially among women aged 40 and above.
Symptom Awareness: Many people with early-stage breast cancer may notice changes in their breasts before a screening test detects anything.
Early detection, whether through screening or prompt evaluation of symptoms, increases treatment options and can improve survival rates. Symptom awareness combined with clinical screening under professional guidance is recommended.
Dr Krishan’s public disclosure adds to ongoing discussions about breast cancer awareness in populations without obvious risk factors, including younger women and those without family history.
Healthcare providers and public health systems emphasize both screening and education about symptoms as part of comprehensive cancer control strategies.
Dr Punam Krishan’s personal breast cancer journey sheds light on the human experience behind a clinical diagnosis and reinforces established medical guidelines about early detection. Her message aligns with public health advice: know your body, be aware of breast changes, and seek medical advice early. Early detection remains a cornerstone of effective breast cancer control.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Symptoms of Breast Cancer.” Last modified July 30, 2025. Accessed January 2026. https://www.cdc.gov/breast-cancer/symptoms/index.html.
American Cancer Society. “Breast Cancer Signs and Symptoms.” Last revised February 25, 2025. Accessed January 2026. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection/breast-cancer-signs-and-symptoms.html.
