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.
‘We know that when children are examined by an optometrist, they have an excellent chance of the signs of Rb being spotted and the correct referrals made.
‘However, we do need to ensure these parents are not turned away and would encourage practices to make sure all their staff are aware of the need for children with symptoms of Rb being examined by the optometrist as soon as possible.’
In response to this finding, CHECT developed a guide for optical support staff to highlight the main signs of Rb and what to do if a parent contacts the practice and cites common signs of the condition.