Strictly Come Dancing star Dr Punam Krishan has revealed she was diagnosed with breast cancer five months ago. The 42-year-old Scottish GP and television personality, who competed on the 2024 series of the BBC show, shared the news in an Instagram post from a hospital bed.
Dr Krishan wrote: 'Five months ago, I heard the words nobody ever wants to hear: “You have cancer”. I still find it hard to write that sentence. But it’s my reality and my truth.' She described the shock, fear and trauma of the diagnosis, adding that despite being a doctor herself, nothing prepares you for being on the receiving end.
She praised the care she received from her NHS team, saying: 'I’ve been incredibly fortunate to be cared for by the most extraordinary NHS team.' She noted that she has now completed treatment and is healing, but remains 'grateful, relieved and still shaken'. Dr Krishan said she kept the diagnosis private to protect her energy and her children, with her husband, family and close friends supporting her.
Urging others to stay vigilant about their health, she wrote: 'Early detection saves lives. It saved mine. My story began with an unusual feeling – a gut instinct. Listening to it mattered.' She emphasised that cancer 'doesn’t discriminate' and encouraged people to know their bodies and act early if something feels wrong.
Dr Krishan, who is married to Scottish Conservative MSP Dr Sandesh Gulhane and has two children, received an outpouring of support, including from her Strictly partner Gorka Márquez, who wrote: 'I know you and I know you will get through this!'
