Sadiya's Story
Sadiya Cheshty
About me:
I am Dr. Sadiya Cheshty, a board‐certified Gastroenterologist with over 20 years of experience. I graduated from the State University of New York Downstate Medical Center College of Medicine, completed my Internal Medicine residency at North Shore University Hospital, and went on to pursue a gastroenterology fellowship at Loyola University School of Medicine. Currently, I practice at Northwell Health in Long Island, NY.
I’m passionate about providing patient-centered care, educating my community on digestive health, and continually advancing my knowledge so I can offer the latest treatments to my patients. My personal background and connection to my Afghan culture and heritage help shape my compassionate approach to medicine.
What do you find the most gratifying about your profession?
For me, the most gratifying aspect is knowing that my work directly improves the quality of life for my patients. Whether it’s diagnosing a challenging condition or helping someone overcome a debilitating gastrointestinal issue, seeing patients regain their health is incredibly rewarding. I also appreciate the opportunity to educate patients about preventive care—empowering them to take control of their health is something that I value deeply.
One of the most rewarding aspects of gastroenterology is the unique blend of patient care and hands-on procedural work. I find it incredibly fulfilling to perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures—whether it’s a colonoscopy that allows me to identify and remove precancerous polyps in real time, or an upper endoscopy that helps me pinpoint and treat sources of bleeding. These procedures provide immediate, tangible feedback on a patient’s condition and directly improve their quality of life. The procedural element, combined with the opportunity to build lasting relationships and educate patients about preventive care, makes my work profoundly gratifying. It’s a constant reminder that I can make a real difference in someone’s health, often in real time.
What is one piece of advice you would give a young Afghan woman?
I would tell any young woman or high school student to always believe in your potential and never be afraid to chase your dreams—even when the path seems challenging. Whether you’re navigating academics, personal interests, or health decisions, develop the habit of asking questions and advocating for yourself. Cultivate confidence by embracing learning opportunities and don’t let anyone diminish your voice. Remember to take care of your body and mind; healthy habits now form the foundation for all your future successes. Your unique background and experiences make you a powerful asset in any field, so hold on to your passion and resilience.
What’s your favorite Afghan tradition?
I hold Eid very close to my heart. In Afghanistan, Eid is a time when communities come together in a spirit of gratitude, generosity, and renewal. Whether it’s Eid al-Fitr at the end of Ramadan or Eid al-Adha commemorating sacrifice, these celebrations are marked by communal prayers, festive meals, the giving of charity, and heartfelt family gatherings. For me, Eid isn’t just a holiday—it’s a reminder of the deep values of unity and compassion that underpin both my personal life and my approach to patient care.
