The writers hope to raise awareness for the condition.
EastEnders is set to feature a storyline highlighting male breast cancer over the next few months.
In an emotional scene on Monday evening’s episode, Stuart Highway, played by actor Ricky Champ, was diagnosed with the condition.
Stuart visited a doctor after noticing a rash on his chest and during the appointment a lump was discovered and he was sent for a biopsy, revealing he has male breast cancer.
Viewers watched as a confused Stuart tried to take in the difficult news. In coming months, the character will face many challenges as he deals with his diagnosis and opens up to his wife Rainie.
“I feel honoured to be trusted with such an important storyline,” said Ricky.
“We will see Stuart really struggle with the fact he has cancer, and to learn that it’s breast cancer is really difficult for him to understand.
“I hope by shedding a light on male breast cancer, more men will be aware of it and seek out a doctor if they notice anything wrong.”
The soap has said it will work closely with Macmillan Cancer Support as the storyline develops to ensure Stuart’s cancer experience will be a realistic one.
Dany Bell, strategic adviser for treatment, medicines and genomics at Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “It’s brilliant to see EastEnders release this very important and poignant storyline.
“We hope it encourages people to become more aware of the signs of breast cancer, regularly check their own chests and reach out for help if needed.”
According to cancer.ie, about 37 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in Ireland. The figure for women is roughly 3,600 each year.
Symptoms in males can include a painless lump in the breast, nipple discharge, swelling of the breast or lymph nodes, among others. More information is available here.
EastEnders airs on RTÉ One and BBC One every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.
