PNN
New Delhi [India], July 1: As we celebrate Doctor's Day 2026, it is an opportunity to recognise the invaluable role of medical professionals in guiding individuals towards healthier lives. Beyond treating illnesses, doctors champion preventive care, healthy habits and informed choices. In this special feature, leading medical experts share practical advice on healthy living for a better tomorrow.
1. Dr. Abhijeet Singh, MBBS, MD, DNB, DM (Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine), Associate Director & Unit Head at Sharda Care - Health City, Greater Noida
According to Dr. Abhijeet Singh, Pulmonologist, Greater Noida, respiratory health is often overlooked until symptoms become severe. He emphasizes that persistent cough, breathlessness, snoring, poor sleep, or recurrent respiratory infections should never be ignored, as early diagnosis can prevent serious complications. Dr. Singh advises people to prioritize lung health by avoiding smoking and vaping, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and keeping adult vaccination up to date, particularly for individuals with asthma, COPD, or other chronic respiratory conditions. He also recommends incorporating regular breathing exercises and at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity to improve lung function and overall fitness. According to Dr. Singh, healthy lungs play a crucial role in supporting heart health, immunity, and overall quality of life. This Doctors' Day, he encourages everyone to make respiratory wellness a priority, because every healthy breath contributes to a healthier and happier life.
2. Dr. Akanksha Chikhlikar, MBBS, MS (General Surgery), Fellowship in Breast Oncosurgery (TMC, Kolkata), Fellowship in Breast Oncoplastic Surgery, University of East Anglia, UK, Consultant - Breast & Surgical Oncology at Narayana Health MMI Superspeciality Hospital, Raipur, Chhattisgarh
Good health is one of life's greatest blessings, and maintaining it requires small but consistent efforts every day. As a breast and surgical oncologist, I encourage everyone to prioritize preventive healthcare. Regular health check-ups, timely cancer screenings, and paying attention to unusual symptoms can help detect diseases early, when treatment is most effective.
Adopt a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption. Equally important is caring for your mental well-being--manage stress, get adequate sleep, and nurture meaningful relationships. For women, breast awareness is vital. Know your body, perform regular self-examinations, and seek medical advice if you notice any changes. This Doctor's Day, remember that good health is built through prevention, awareness, and timely action. Invest in your health today for a healthier, happier tomorrow. Happy Doctor's Day!
3. Dr. Aman Khera, MBBS, MS, Founder of Aegiscare Pvt. Ltd.
Healthy ageing begins with prevention. For senior citizens, regular health check-ups and a proactive approach to wellness can significantly improve quality of life. Adult vaccinations against diseases such as influenza and pneumonia are essential, as they reduce the risk of severe infections, hospitalization, and life-threatening complications. Without timely immunization, older adults are more vulnerable due to a naturally declining immune system. Routine health screenings help detect conditions like cancer, hypertension, and diabetes at an early stage, allowing timely treatment and preventing complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, neuropathy, and vision loss. Equally important is maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and essential nutrients to support immunity, strength, and overall well-being.
Mental health should never be overlooked. Early recognition and treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other psychological conditions can greatly enhance emotional well-being and independence. Finally, preventing falls and accidents through a safe home environment, assistive devices, and reliable caregivers or domestic support is vital to reducing medical emergencies. Preventive healthcare empowers seniors to lead longer, healthier, and happier lives.
4. Dr. Anjali Nagpal, MBBS, MD (Psychiatry), DPM, ECFMG (USA), Founder & Chief Medical Director at Serenity Clinic, New Delhi
At Serenity Clinic Dr Anjali Nagpal emphasises that emotional wellness is as important as physical health and should be approached without stigma or misconceptions. Advances in neuroscience, brain imaging, quantitative EEG (qEEG) brain mapping, and neurogenomics have transformed the understanding of mental health, enabling more personalized and effective treatments. We advocate three key principles: precision through evidence-based diagnosis, integration of mental and physical healthcare, and education to eliminate stigma. Mental health conditions often coexist with neurological, metabolic, or lifestyle-related factors, making holistic care essential.
On this Doctors' Day 2026, Dr. Anjali Nagpal encourages people to seek psychiatric care early, emphasizing that it is a sign of self-awareness and informed decision-making--not weakness. Early care enables timely intervention, access to the latest evidence-based treatments and advances in brain science, and personalized care for better long-term outcomes.
5. Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, MS (General Surgery), MCh (Surgical Oncology), FIAGES, PDCR, ACMO, Senior Consultant - Surgical & Robotic Oncologist, Clinical Director - Surgical Oncology at Yashoda Hospital, Hitec City, Founder & Global CEO of Grace Cancer Foundation
Doctors' Day 2026 celebrates the dedication of medical professionals who combine expertise with compassion to transform lives. According to Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, cancer care extends beyond treating the disease; it involves early detection, timely intervention, and personalized treatment that addresses each patient's unique needs. Advances in surgical oncology and robotic-assisted procedures have made cancer treatment more precise, enabling improved outcomes, faster recovery, and enhanced quality of life. He emphasizes that regular health screenings, awareness of cancer warning signs, and healthy lifestyle choices remain essential for prevention and early diagnosis. Equally important is providing emotional support and clear communication to patients and their families throughout the treatment journey. On this Doctors' Day, Dr. Sunkavalli acknowledges the unwavering commitment of healthcare professionals who continue to innovate, inspire hope, and deliver compassionate care, helping patients face cancer with confidence, resilience, and renewed optimism.
6. Dr. Arjun Dang, MBBS, MD (Pathology), Fellowship in Liver Pathology, King's College Hospital, London, Certified in Allergy and Immunology, European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, New Delhi
This Doctors' Day, the message is simple: CHEERS to Health--Calm the mind, Happiness as a health goal, Exercise every day, Eat with intention, Rest through restorative sleep, and Stress less to live more. True health is not merely the absence of disease but the result of consistent, mindful choices that nurture both body and mind. Doctors play a vital role not only in diagnosing and treating illnesses but also in empowering people to adopt healthier lifestyles through prevention and awareness. Simple habits such as eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, sleeping well, managing stress, and undergoing regular health check-ups can significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve overall well-being. Preventive healthcare begins with informed decisions and daily discipline. The best time to prioritize health is before symptoms appear, because lasting wellness is built through small, consistent actions every day.
7. Dr. Deo Kumar Jha, Pediatric Pulmonologist & Intensivist, Chief Faculty, Respiratory Foundation of India - Centre of Excellence for Learning Pediatric Pulmonology and Bronchoscopy; HOD - Pediatric Pulmonology & Intensive Care at Vitalis Superspeciality Children Hospital; Independent Senior Consultant at Dr Dev Child Health Care and Child Chest Super Speciality Clinic, Sahibabad, Delhi NCR
Doctors' Day 2026 is an opportunity to highlight the importance of preventive healthcare, especially for children, whose early health lays the foundation for lifelong well-being. According to Dr. Deo Kumar Jha, maintaining good respiratory health begins with simple yet effective practices, including timely vaccinations, proper nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and minimizing exposure to air pollution and tobacco smoke. He emphasizes that persistent cough, recurrent respiratory infections, or breathing difficulties should never be ignored, as early diagnosis and timely intervention can prevent serious complications. Parents also play a vital role by encouraging healthy habits, ensuring regular medical check-ups, and seeking expert care when needed. As advances in pediatric pulmonology continue to improve outcomes, awareness and prevention remain the strongest tools for protecting children's health. This Doctors' Day, Dr. Jha encourages families to prioritize proactive healthcare to help children lead healthier, happier, and more active lives.
8. Dr. Lepakshi Kuruba, MBBS, MD, DNB (Medical Oncology), ECMO (Europe), Senior Consultant - Medical Oncology at Narayana Hospital, Mysuru & Karunadu Cancer Clinics, Mysuru
On the occasion of Doctors' Day 2026, Dr. Lepakshi Kuruba, Senior Medical and Hemato-oncologist at Karunadu Cancer Clinics and Narayana Hospital, Mysuru, extends heartfelt wishes to doctors who bring hope and healing to countless lives. He emphasizes that nearly 60-70% of cancers can be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices and greater awareness. Avoiding all forms of tobacco, following a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, engaging in at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week, and limiting alcohol consumption can significantly reduce cancer risk. He also highlights the importance of regular health screenings, including mammograms, Pap smears, and colonoscopies, as early detection greatly improves treatment outcomes. Equally essential is nurturing mental well-being through stress management, meditation, yoga, and adequate sleep. This Doctors' Day, Dr. Kuruba encourages everyone to embrace preventive healthcare and make informed choices for a healthier and happier future.
9. Dr. Pavan Yadav, MBBS, MD, MBA, FCCP, Clinical Director & Lead Consultant - Pulmonology at KIMS Hospital (Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences), Electronic City, Bengaluru
On the occasion of Doctors' Day 2026, pulmonologists emphasize that healthy lungs are the foundation of a healthier and happier life. Every breath reflects the quality of the air people breathe, the lifestyle they follow, and the care they give their bodies. Avoiding smoking, vaping, and exposure to second hand smoke remains the most effective way to protect lung health. Regular physical activity, breathing exercises, adequate sleep, vaccination against influenza and pneumonia, and timely medical attention for persistent cough, wheezing, breathlessness, snoring, or recurrent respiratory infections can help prevent serious lung diseases. Air pollution continues to pose a significant health risk, particularly for children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with asthma, COPD, ILD, or heart disease. Wearing masks during periods of poor air quality and improving indoor air quality are simple yet effective preventive measures. This Doctors' Day, the message is clear: breathe clean, stay active, sleep well, and seek timely medical care for healthier lungs and a better quality of life.
10. Dr. Pooja Babbar, Medical Oncologist - Medical Oncology & Precision Oncology, Gurugram
On the occasion of Doctors' Day 2026, Dr. Pooja Babbar, Senior Medical Oncologist at Fortis Hospital, Manesar, Gurugram, highlights the importance of preventive healthcare and consistent healthy habits. With over 15 years of experience in cancer care, she emphasizes that many serious illnesses develop gradually, often because early warning signs are overlooked. Persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, prolonged cough, or unusual lumps should never be ignored, as timely medical evaluation can lead to early diagnosis and better outcomes. Dr. Babbar encourages people to adopt simple yet effective habits, including regular exercise, balanced home-cooked meals, adequate hydration, quality sleep, and avoiding tobacco. She also stresses the importance of routine health check-ups and advises against relying solely on online information for medical concerns. Equally vital is prioritizing mental well-being through stress management and adequate rest. This Doctors' Day, her message is clear: prevention, awareness, and timely action are the keys to a healthier and happier life.
11. Dr. Swarupa Mitra, MBBS, MD, EPHM (IIM Kolkata), FICRO, Senior Director & Unit Head, Department of Radiation Oncology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram
On the occasion of Doctors' Day 2026, the message from cancer specialists is that good health begins with simple, consistent lifestyle choices. A healthy and happy life is built on eating a balanced, nutritious diet, staying physically active, getting adequate sleep, managing stress, nurturing meaningful relationships, and avoiding tobacco in all forms. While no one can completely eliminate the risk of cancer, adopting healthy habits can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing cancer and other chronic diseases. Maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, exercising regularly, and participating in recommended health screenings are essential steps toward early detection and prevention. Equally important is caring for emotional well-being by finding joy, purpose, and balance in everyday life. True health is not simply the absence of disease but the ability to live actively, build meaningful connections, and age with dignity. Small, consistent choices today create the foundation for a healthier tomorrow.
12. Dr. Vikram Sharma, MBBS, MD, DNB, MRCP, FAAN - Stroke, Epilepsy, Headache, Multiple Sclerosis, Back & Neck Pain Specialist | Senior Consultant - Neurology at Omega Hospitals, Gachibowli, Hyderabad
On the occasion of Doctors' Day 2026, neurologists emphasize that a healthy brain is the foundation of a healthy and fulfilling life. Protecting brain health begins with simple yet consistent habits, including getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep, staying physically active, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and omega-3 fatty acids, and keeping blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol under control. Lifelong learning, meaningful social connections, stress management through meditation or mindfulness, adequate hydration, and regular exposure to morning sunlight also support cognitive health and emotional well-being. Equally important is recognizing warning signs such as sudden weakness, slurred speech, vision loss, severe headaches, or unexplained seizures and seeking immediate medical attention. A healthy brain not only reduces the risk of neurological disorders but also enhances memory, resilience, and quality of life. Small daily choices today can help preserve brain health for years to come.
(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.)
