Eye cancer in kids on the rise in Pakistan

Treatment of eye cancer is lengthy, very costly process, says oncologist

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan is seeing an alarming rise in pediatric eye cancer cases which is worrying and one of the highest in the region.

This was said by Paediatric Oncologist Dr Tanzeela Farah at Al-Shifa Eye Trust Hospital on Friday.

“The occurrence of eye cancer needs early detection, diagnosis, and proper treatment. Almost 30 per cent of eye cancer patients are children, which is a big challenge for us.”

Dr Tanzeela said timely detection could save a child’s sight. However, in case of failure to consult an expert, most eye cancer patients may suffer vision loss or loss of an eye, or it may prove fatal in some cases.

She added that the treatment of eye cancer is a lengthy and very costly process.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 18^th, 2023.