This Morning's medical expert Dr Uchenna Okoye dies aged 53 after 'sudden illness'

This Morning's medical expert Dr Uchenna Okoye has passed away at the age 53 after 'sudden illness'.

The sad news was confirmed in a statement by her family today (18 September).

"We know many of you will be devastated and shocked to see this post. We ask for your prayers and some privacy at this difficult time. We will be in touch in the coming days."

It continued: "We request that you respect Uchenna’s family’s wishes for privacy at this very difficult time.

"The Uchenna sparkle touched the lives of everyone she met and drew her into stardom on 10 Years Younger makeover show, followed by 10 Years Younger in 10 Days where her passion and compassion leaps off the screen.

"For the last twenty years, her deep knowledge of dentistry and her incredible chair-side manner made her the go-to spokeswoman for any dental issue and a popular contributor to radio, TV, and women’s consumer press."

Tributes flooded in for Dr Okoye following the unexpected news.

One admirer wrote: "Our wonderful Uchenna - it’s so sad. Vibrancy, kindness, generosity and love were in her soul and those of us who knew her adored her and her beautiful daughter. Condolences to Uchenna’s loving family."

Another commented: "Beautiful Uchenna! An industry beacon who quickly became a friend to many of us. So warm, generous and funny. Sending condolences to her family and friends."

Someone else wrote: "Such devastating news. She was such a vital and inspiring woman, and so passionate about her work. Sending much love to her family."

Earlier this year Dr Okoye had opened up about the demands of her job and how she relaxed after a long day.

Speaking to Hello! magazine, she admitted: "I always make time for a massage once a week, but I realised these aren't simply a luxury.

"As a busy dentist, I spent a full 10 hours a day crouched over looking into people’s mouths, so a massage is a necessity."

When it came to relaxing, she made lighting a candle part of her daily routine.

Dr Okoye added: "My daughter loves it too and gets excited when she sees me lighting them as she knows it is her time with me also, it’s downtime."