EastEnders is set to air a new storyline in which Sam Mitchell is diagnosed with breast cancer. The BBC soap is working with Breast Cancer Now and medical experts to ensure the plot is handled sensitively and accurately.
This December, Sam returns to Walford after discovering a lump in her breast. Initially keeping it to herself, her erratic behaviour alerts her family. Jack, Denise and Phil encourage her to see a doctor.
The results confirm Sam has breast cancer. However, due to an early diagnosis and quick treatment, she undergoes a lumpectomy in the New Year and makes a full recovery.
Ben Wadey, EastEnders executive producer, said: “It was imperative that we worked with Breast Cancer Now to ensure that Sam’s important breast cancer storyline was portrayed sensitively and accurately.”
Sally Kum, associate director of nursing at Breast Cancer Now, added: “Sam’s experience will resonate with thousands of EastEnders viewers. We know that the earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the better the chances of successful treatment.”
The storyline aims to highlight the importance of checking breasts and seeking medical advice when changes occur.
