EASTENDERS scriptwriters have called on the services of a consultant based at the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro.

Consultant gynaecological oncologist Tito Lopes, who is the clinical lead for gynaecological cancer services, was asked to advise writers of the award-winning soap on a story line involving the character Tanya Jessop.

Tanya, played by Jo Joyner, was diagnosed with cervical cancer following a routine smear test. Mr Lopes, who was recommended by the charity Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust, wanted to ensure the story remained true to life. "I was brought in as a medical adviser to look at the script and story. Initially I was concerned because writers want to use as much drama as possible and pile on the complications.

"But in the end they took it seriously. I did ask them to get in a few points – although I'm not sure they did – to stress that severely abnormal smears are only detected in around 600 women each year. I also wanted them to incorporate the vaccine for young girls. Tanya is a mother and we want to encourage more parents to have their daughter's vaccinated.

"EastEnders and people like Jade Goody (who appeared on Channel 4's Big Brother and died from the disease in 2009) can have more impact than we can ever have. TV is a powerful way of raising awareness and I am pleased I was able to help."

Since screening was introduced in 1988 the number of cases has halved. Fifty per cent of those diagnosed are women who are not up to date with their smear tests. Cornwall's coverage rate is 79 per cent compared to Scotland which has 90 per cent of women undergoing regular smears and 80 per cent in England.