Former Strictly Come Dancing Star Punam Krishan Reveals Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Recovery

Punam Krishan’s Health Revelation

Former Punam Krishan, the TV doctor and on-screen personality who competed on Strictly Come Dancing, has revealed she was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year and has since completed treatment.

Krishan, 42, who is also a familiar face on BBC One’s Morning Live, said the diagnosis came five months ago. Despite nearly two decades working as a doctor, she acknowledged the emotional shock of becoming a patient herself, explaining that professional knowledge offers little preparation for such news.

Sharing her experience publicly after finishing treatment, Krishan said the decision followed months of privacy focused on protecting her children and preserving her emotional wellbeing. Reflecting on that period, she credited her husband, family and close friends with supporting her through treatment and recovery, describing the process as both humbling and transformative.

In her message, Krishan stressed the importance of vigilance and early detection, noting that she had no family history of the disease and considered herself healthy at the time of diagnosis. “Early detection saves lives, it saved mine,” she wrote, urging others to trust their instincts and act promptly if something feels wrong.

The Scottish broadcaster added that the experience had forced her to confront mortality and reassess priorities, placing health above work, possessions and perfection. She said she plans to speak more openly about her journey when she feels ready.

Krishan appeared on Strictly Come Dancing in 2024, becoming the fifth celebrity eliminated after partnering with professional dancer Gorka Marquez. Marquez later posted a message of support on social media, while fellow Strictly professional Amy Dowden, who has also been treated for breast cancer, publicly sent her encouragement.

Beyond Strictly, Krishan has made a number of entertainment appearances, including on the BBC quiz show The Weakest Link, and remains a prominent advocate for accessible health information on television.

According to the NHS, common symptoms of breast cancer can include a lump or swelling in the breast, changes to breast skin or shape, nipple changes, or persistent pain in the breast or armpit.