EastEnders will explore a blood cancer storyline involving the character Denise Fox.
The BBC soap opera will see the salon manager, played by Diane Parish, diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia.
After experiencing unexplained tiredness, Denise undergoes a number of tests before receives her diagnosis.
The storyline will explore its impact on the character and her loved ones in the months that follow and will play out across the rest of the year.
The soap worked closely with the national charity, Blood Cancer UK, to ensure the story is portrayed as accurately and sensitively as possible.
Ben Wadey, executive producer at EastEnders said: “It was vital to us that Denise’s storyline is portrayed with sensitivity and care, and we’re grateful to Blood Cancer UK for their advice in helping us tell this story accurately.
“As viewers follow Denise, we hope to shine a light on the realities and challenges of an acute myeloid leukaemia diagnosis and the impact it has on the person affected and those around them.”
According to the charity, blood cancer is caused by changes (mutations) in the DNA within the blood cells.
Each year in the UK, more than 40,000 people are diagnosed with a blood cancer with leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma some of the most common types.
Helen Rowntree, chief executive of Blood Cancer UK, added: “It’s been a privilege advising the EastEnders team to ensure Denise’s storyline reflects the real experiences of people living with blood cancer and those who care for them.
“Blood cancers, which include leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma, do not discriminate yet experiences and outcomes can vary significantly, including by ethnicity.
“Being black and living with an aggressive blood cancer like acute myeloid leukaemia can bring additional challenges.
“We hope viewers gain a greater understanding of blood cancer’s impact and we’re pleased this issue is being highlighted on a powerful platform, helping make a ‘hidden’ cancer more visible.”
EastEnders airs on BBC One every Monday to Thursday at 7.30pm.
