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Retinoblastoma Childrens Eye Cancer Awareness Week 2023
Posted: 15/05/2023
Retinoblastoma is a rare type of cancer that affects the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It is typically found in babies and young children, with about 40-50 cases diagnosed each year in the UK. In some cases it is hereditary, and children with relatives who have had retinoblastoma will be checked from birth, but many cases occur where there is no family history of the disease. Unfortunately for these children there are often delays in diagnosis due to lack of awareness meaning that the disease is more advanced by the time diagnosis is made. This makes treatment can be complex and can involve removal of the eye in order to save the child’s life. Earlier diagnosis can make a great difference to these children and their families.
Some of the signs and symptoms of retinoblastoma in children include a white or glowing pupil a sudden onset of a squint (crossed or misaligned eyes), a change in iris colour and vision problems. A rarer presentation is a persistent red or swollen eye that does not clear up. If parents notice any of these symptoms in their child, they should seek medical advice immediately. Timely diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent the spread of the cancer and save a child's life.
Retinoblastoma Awareness Week is taking place from May 14-20, 2023 and it is an opportunity for families affected by retinoblastoma, healthcare professionals, and organizations supporting research and treatment to come together to raise awareness and educate the public about this condition. CHECT, the Children’s Eye Cancer Trust organise this annual event and their website is a wealth of information for both the public and professionals.
Retinoblastoma Awareness Week is also an opportunity to raise funds for research into this condition. Research is crucial for developing new and more effective treatments, improving outcomes for children with retinoblastoma, and ultimately finding a cure. If you would like to donate to CHECT, the Childrens Eye Cancer Trust, follow this link. Our Purley branch is raising funds for CHECT at their 90 th Anniversary celebration – more details will follow in a later blog.
In summary, Retinoblastoma Awareness Week is an important event in the UK's healthcare calendar. It provides an opportunity to raise awareness of retinoblastoma, promote early detection and treatment, and support research into this condition. By working together, we can help to improve outcomes for children with retinoblastoma and increase the chances of finding a cure in the future.
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