On Doctor's Day 2026, celebrated on July 1, medical professionals across India emphasize the importance of preventive healthcare and healthy living. Experts from various specialties share actionable advice to help individuals build a foundation for long-term well-being.
Respiratory Health: A Priority for All Ages
Dr. Abhijeet Singh, a pulmonologist at Sharda Care - Health City, Greater Noida, warns that respiratory issues like persistent cough, breathlessness, snoring, or recurrent infections should never be ignored. Early diagnosis can prevent serious complications. He advises avoiding smoking and vaping, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and keeping adult vaccinations up to date, especially for those with asthma or COPD. He recommends at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity and regular breathing exercises to improve lung function.
Dr. Deo Kumar Jha, a pediatric pulmonologist in Delhi NCR, highlights the importance of respiratory health in children. He stresses timely vaccinations, proper nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and minimizing exposure to air pollution and tobacco smoke. Persistent cough or breathing difficulties in children require prompt medical attention.
Dr. Pavan Yadav, a pulmonologist at KIMS Hospital, Bengaluru, adds that avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke is the most effective way to protect lungs. He also recommends wearing masks during poor air quality and improving indoor air to prevent lung diseases.
Cancer Prevention and Early Detection
Dr. Akanksha Chikhlikar, a breast and surgical oncologist at Narayana Health, Raipur, encourages regular health check-ups, timely cancer screenings, and attention to unusual symptoms. She advocates a balanced diet, physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol. Breast awareness, including self-examinations, is vital for women.
Dr. Chinnababu Sunkavalli, a surgical oncologist at Yashoda Hospital, Hyderabad, notes that advances in robotic surgery have made cancer treatment more precise. He emphasizes regular screenings and awareness of warning signs for early diagnosis.
Dr. Lepakshi Kuruba, a medical oncologist in Mysuru, states that 60-70% of cancers can be prevented through healthy lifestyles. He recommends avoiding tobacco, eating a balanced diet, engaging in 150 minutes of physical activity weekly, and limiting alcohol. Regular screenings like mammograms and colonoscopies improve outcomes.
Dr. Pooja Babbar, a medical oncologist at Fortis Hospital, Gurugram, warns against ignoring persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, prolonged cough, or unusual lumps. She advises regular exercise, home-cooked meals, hydration, quality sleep, and avoiding tobacco. Routine health check-ups are crucial.
Dr. Swarupa Mitra, a radiation oncologist at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, says good health begins with consistent lifestyle choices: balanced nutrition, physical activity, adequate sleep, stress management, and avoiding tobacco. While cancer risk cannot be eliminated, healthy habits significantly reduce it.
Mental Well-Being and Brain Health
Dr. Anjali Nagpal, a psychiatrist at Serenity Clinic, New Delhi, emphasizes that emotional wellness is as important as physical health. Advances in neuroscience and brain imaging have enabled personalized treatments. She encourages early psychiatric care as a sign of self-awareness, not weakness.
Dr. Vikram Sharma, a neurologist at Omega Hospitals, Hyderabad, highlights brain health through 7-9 hours of sleep, physical activity, a balanced diet rich in omega-3s, and controlling blood pressure and diabetes. Lifelong learning, social connections, and stress management support cognitive health. Warning signs like sudden weakness or severe headaches need immediate attention.
Healthy Ageing and Preventive Care
Dr. Aman Khera, founder of Aegiscare, advises seniors to prioritize regular health check-ups and adult vaccinations against influenza and pneumonia. Routine screenings for cancer, hypertension, and diabetes enable early treatment. Mental health should not be overlooked, and fall prevention through safe home environments is vital.
Dr. Arjun Dang, a pathologist in New Delhi, sums up health with the acronym CHEERS: Calm the mind, Happiness as a health goal, Exercise every day, Eat with intention, Rest through restorative sleep, and Stress less. He stresses that true health results from consistent mindful choices.
This Doctor's Day, the collective message from experts is clear: prevention, awareness, and timely action are the keys to a healthier and happier life.
