BBC presenter and NHS GP Dr Punam Krishan has announced she has been diagnosed with breast cancer. The 42-year-old, who appeared on Strictly Come Dancing in 2024, shared the news on Instagram, saying she has been “to some very dark places” since learning of her diagnosis in August.
Krishan, a resident medic on BBC’s Morning Live, said that despite nearly two decades of supporting patients through difficult diagnoses, “absolutely nothing prepares you for being on the receiving end yourself”. She described the shock, fear and trauma, adding that “in that moment, knowledge means very little”.
She revealed she had a “gut instinct” that something was wrong and urged others to get checked. Krishan kept her diagnosis private while undergoing treatment to protect her energy and her two children with husband Dr Sandesh Gulhane. Now that treatment is complete, she said “carrying it quietly has been heavy”.
Krishan credited her husband, family and a small circle of friends for carrying her through. She said the experience has changed her, stripping life back to what truly matters: “Your health is everything. Not work. Not possessions. Not perfection.”
Support came from her Strictly dance partner Gorka Marquez, who commented: “I know you and I know you will get through this!” Amy Dowden, who has also had breast cancer, wrote: “You got this pink sister.”
