A leading doctor has revealed her five rules for 2026, urging the public not to overlook the fundamentals of long-term health.

While many are focused on New Year resolutions centered on fitness, diet and weight loss, Prof Dr Eren Erken says it is simple health checks, preventative habits and early intervention that play the biggest role in positive outcomes as we age.

'January is an opportunity to reset not just routines, but awareness of your own body,' she said.

'There are many serious conditions that are actually much more treatable when spotted early, yet people often delay taking crucial action because they feel as though their symptoms aren't actually "that bad".'

1. Keep up with regular at-home cancer checks

Simple self-checks can save lives, and there are many different ones you can do at home without having to visit a doctor.

Regular breast checks, testicular self-examinations, and being aware of changes such as unexplained lumps, persistent pain, changes in bowel habits or unusual bleeding are essential.

These checks take minutes, but they help people spot changes early and seek medical advice before problems progress.

2. Protect your vital organs as you age

As we get older, organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys and lungs naturally become less efficient.

Protecting them means managing blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, limiting alcohol, staying hydrated, and avoiding smoking. 

Some of these may already be on your list for the new year, but incorporating all of them would be extremely beneficial.

Regular blood tests and health screenings allow doctors to identify strain on organs long before symptoms appear.

3. Don't ignore sleep and recovery

Sleep is not a luxury, it's a biological necessity. Poor sleep is linked to heart disease, weakened immunity and cognitive decline.

Prioritising consistent sleep routines, limiting screens before bed and addressing snoring or sleep apnoea can have a profound impact on overall health.

4. Drink more water to protect your entire body

Hydration plays a critical role in almost every function of the body, and drinking enough water supports kidney function, digestion, circulation and cognitive health.

Dehydration can increase fatigue, headaches and strain on vital organs. 

Making a conscious effort to drink water regularly throughout the day is one of the easiest ways to support overall health.

Get a water bottle that has the times of day on there, so you know exactly how much you're drinking and whether it's the right amount.

5. Book preventative health checks, even if you feel well

Many conditions develop silently and annual health checks, including cardiovascular assessments, cancer screenings and metabolic tests, allow us to detect issues early and intervene before they become serious.

Feeling well does not always mean being well and these tests will also give you some added reassurance that everything is okay, helping to stop you overthinking and prevent your brain from working in overdrive.