Actress Jane Hazlegrove has shared that her character, Bernie Winter on Coronation Street, is "terrified for her children" following a new family health scare. Bernie is a matriarch of a large and complex family, including her late son Paul, who died from Motor Neurone Disease, as well as other children like Kit Green, Gemma Winter, and her teenage grandson Brody Michaelis. Known for being fiercely protective of her family, Bernie is now facing a potential crisis after discovering that a genetic mutation known as the BRCA gene—often linked to an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer—runs in the Winter family. Bernie and her daughter Gemma both decided to get tested for the BRCA gene after learning of the family’s history, but it was revealed that Kit had already been privately tested and was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer. Jane Hazlegrove explained that Bernie is determined to prevent another tragedy in her family, but her relationship with Kit is complicated. This is partly due to Kit having been given up for adoption as a child, and his real name being "Zodiac." A recent confrontation at the hospital saw Bernie accuse Kit of being negative, a moment that reminded her of the loss of her son Paul. When Kit finally reveals his breast cancer diagnosis, Bernie is devastated. She realizes she must be a carrier of the BRCA gene and becomes terrified for her children, including Gemma, her four grandchildren (the quads), and Brody. She expresses a desire to take on the risk herself, echoing feelings she had when Paul was dying. Male breast cancer can present with symptoms such as a lump under the nipple, changes to the nipple, discharge, or skin changes on the chest. Risk factors include age, inherited BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, high estrogen levels, and certain genetic conditions. In the UK, about 400 to 420 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, compared to around 59,000 women. While the incidence rate in men has remained stable, mortality rates have decreased by about 47% since the early 1970s. Bernie is now considering major decisions, including the possibility of undergoing surgery that could involve losing her breasts. This would have a significant impact on her relationship with her partner, Dev Alahan. With a 70% chance of developing breast cancer herself, Bernie wants to be around for her grandchildren and the quads, despite the psychological challenges of such a procedure.