EastEnders has confirmed a devastating new diagnosis for Denise Fox as her health struggles continue to worsen.

In recent episodes of the BBC soap, salon owner Denise, portrayed by Diane Parish, has become increasingly worried about her declining energy levels.

This week, Sam Mitchell (Kim Medcalf) discovered Denise asleep at the salon, exhausted. Following her own recent breast cancer ordeal, Sam is attempting to support Denise, including urging her to seek medical advice.

In upcoming scenes, Denise arranges a GP appointment, and following tests, she will receive a diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia, a type of blood cancer.

The storyline, which will unfold throughout the remainder of the year, will track Denise following her diagnosis, examining its effect on her and her family in the coming months, reports OK!.

Blood Cancer UK is collaborating closely with EastEnders to ensure the narrative is depicted as accurately and sensitively as possible.

Discussing Denise’s cancer diagnosis, Ben Wadey, executive producer, 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.

“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”, added CEO of Blood Cancer UK, Helen Rowntree.

“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.”