India has the highest number of cases of retinoblastoma or rare eye cancer that usually affects children under the age of five. According to experts, one-third of them have squinting as a symptom.

Doctors say that squinting – also known as strabismus, is the second most common cause of this cancer, after the regularly associated white pupillary reflex, leukocoria. Dr Uday Tekchandani, consultant ophthalmologist at Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, tells Times Now, “Any abnormal colour change of the eyes such as white or yellow reflex (even in newborns) or even deviation of the eyes (squinching) at any age should be brought to the attention of an ophthalmologist as it may be a sign of childhood cataract or even eye cancer.”

Retinoblastoma can occur in one or both eyes. Experts believe it is caused by a malfunction in young, developing retinal cells. About 4 out of 5 cases are diagnosed before the age of three. In rare cases, the condition can also develop in adults after the initial growth of the tumor has been interrupted.

How does retinoblastoma cause squinting?

In children with retinoblastoma, when a tumor in the eye interferes with their vision, it can cause the eye to wander or deviate. Doctors say parents often notice the squint long before the white pupil appears.

Ideally, both eyes should be the same size and move together when the baby looks at an object. However, when the baby focuses on something and if the line of sight of both eyes collides with the other eye – this causes the eyes to cross.

Signs and Symptoms of Retinoblastomaother than narrowing your eyes

Although retinoblastoma usually occurs in children before they can even speak, some other signs and symptoms may indicate its development, including:

• Eyes that have trouble following movement or don’t follow it at all
• eye pain
• Enlarged and bulging eyes
• blood in the front chamber of the eye
• Eye infections, inflammation, and irritation

How to take care of your children’s eyes?

Although retinoblastoma is caused by a defect in DNA, parents still need to take care of their children’s eyes, and there are a few ways you can do this:

Regular eye tests

According to Dr Tekchandani, every child should get their eyes checked by an ophthalmologist once they start school to diagnose any problems. “Early symptoms that require checking for refractive error include confusion between similar-looking objects or numbers, moving closer to the object or blackboard to read, and squinting to see better,” he said.

Limit screen time

Any screen time is unsafe for children under 1-2 years of age, so limit this to video calls only when absolutely necessary.

Keep chemicals and sharp objects away

Make sure chemicals and sharp objects are kept out of reach of children. These objects can pose a significant risk for eye injuries and infections. “Safety measures should be implemented to prevent accidents and protect your child’s eyes,” said Dr. Tekchandani.

Symptoms of genetic eye diseases

Difficulty walking in unfamiliar environments, frequently bumping into objects, or vision problems during the day or night may be symptoms of genetic eye diseases. If you notice these symptoms, consult an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive evaluation.

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