'Home and Away' to air breast cancer storyline

Home and Away favourite Irene Roberts is to be diagnosed with breast cancer in a forthcoming storyline, it has been revealed.

The Summer Bay stalwart, played by Lynne McGranger, receives the news after seeking medical advice when she finds a lump in her breast during a self-examination.

Speaking of the upcoming plot, McGranger told TV Week: "She discovers a lump, which is a message we wanted to get across - that self-examination can save lives. It's alarming, but she tries to keep it together and goes to the doctor, and then gets the bad news that it's a form of cancer.

"She can't quite take it in. Like any woman facing the thought of removing her breast and battling cancer, she's floored."

McGranger also praised Home and Away bosses for tackling the issue and said that she is delighted to be involved.

"I'm thrilled to be able to pay homage to so many women I know out there who are fighting this disease, or have beaten it, or, sadly, have lost their lives," she explained.

Home and Away's new storyline for Irene begins on Australian screens next week and on Channel 5 in the UK later this year.

> Home and Away star promises big Irene plot
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