CHECT celebrates optometrists during World Retinoblastoma Awareness Week

Figures released by the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust (CHECT) for World Retinoblastoma Awareness Week 2024 (May 12-18) highlighted the key role optometrists can play in the early diagnosis of retinoblastoma (Rb).

Around one child a week was diagnosed with the condition in the UK and, in 2023, a third of children later diagnosed with the condition were taken to their local optometrist in the first instance.

However, CHECT said parents reported being turned away from optical practices by front of house staff because their children were too young to be seen.

Richard Ashton, chief executive of CHECT said, said: ‘It is really positive to see so many parents consulting their local optometrist with concerns about their child’s eyes.