May 13 to 19 is observed as World Retinoblastoma Awareness Week. Retinoblastoma is a common eye cancer that possesses the risk of spreading to the brain from optic nerves and metastasis to other body parts through blood in children. As per governmental data, 1 out of every 18,000 children is affected globally with more than 1500-2000 cases reported annually. In the majority of cases, it occurs in one eye i.e., unilateral retinoblastoma but in some cases can affect both the eyes called bilateral retinoblastoma.

Experts attribute myths and misconceptions around late diagnosis as the reason behind the reduced chances of survival. Dr. Fairooz P Manjandavida, Consultant at HORUS Specialty Eye Care in Bangalore, stated that mutation or variation in the genetic profile is considered the cause of retinoblastoma in 40% of the reported cases affecting children, especially 1 year old or younger. She added that the RB1 gene is responsible for the manifestation of this cancer. However, she also stated that the genetic factors are linked to cases of bilateral retinoblastoma more in comparison to a unilateral eye condition, yet only 10-20% of the affected children have a family history of the condition. She also stressed that the condition is mostly diagnosed in children under five and can be developed in kids of any race, although the children of the underserved community are at an increased risk of impact or worst outcome due to insufficient healthcare facilities.

She also explained that parental genes and environmental factors are linked to the disease progression and manifestations such as White pupillary reflex, squint eye, bigger eye appearance, vision loss, bulging of the eye, bleeding in the front of the eye, shrunken eyeball, redness, and pain. She stressed that the condition is completely curable if detected early and treated using the right methods such as cryotherapy, laser therapy, chemotherapy radiation, etc. However, she also added that the children should be diagnosed early in the case of family history by appropriate medical professionals as early treatment can reduce the risk of vision loss.