Cancer impacts millions of lives every single day, whether first-hand or through a family member, friend or colleague. There are an estimated 3.5 million people living with cancer in the UK alone.1
World Cancer Day aims to educate people on how cancer impacts people’s lives and to advocate for individuals and their specific needs throughout their care. It promotes a people-centred approach, encompassing medical treatment, support systems, living conditions and more.2
Early cancer symptoms
Signs of cancer can appear in various areas of the body, ranging from subtle changes to more severe symptoms.
Early signs of cancer include:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Severe fatigue
- Changes in the skin, including moles
- Persistent pain
- Unusual lumps or swelling
But did you know that cancer can be detected in your eyes?
How cancers show up in the eyes
Various types of cancer can be identified during a detailed eye examination. Skin cancers can affect the eyelids and outer surfaces of the eye, while tumours can spread to the ocular structure. Leukaemia and lymphoma can also affect the interior of the eye – changes an optometrist may be able to spot.3
Skin Cancer
There are 5 main types of eyelid cancer: basal cell carcinoma, sebaceous cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Symptoms may include:
- Lumps of the eyelids
- Ulcerations on the eyelids
- Moles on the eyelids or surrounding skin
If you're worried about a mole on your body, our partner-brand sk:n (located inside our Optical Express clinics) provides mole management services. Explore more here.
Brain Tumours
Changes in vision are a symptom of brain tumours. Routine eye exams may detect tumours before you notice any symptoms by identifying swelling of the optic disc or pressure on the optic nerve.4
Leukaemia
The link between leukaemia and the eye was first noted in 1860, and eye symptoms are often the first indication of leukaemia.5
Increased bleeding and bruising without an obvious cause is a common symptom, which can also present in the eyes too. Small bleeds behind the eye, known as “Roth spots”, can be spotted during an OCT eye exam.6
Early detection is key
Early detection of any type of cancer is vital as it allows for quicker intervention and better outcomes.
Getting a diagnosis early means there are more treatment options, improved survival rates, a better prognosis and more straightforward treatment pathways.
While it’s important to visit your GP if you notice any changes in your health, attending your routine eye examination every two years is just as important.
As highlighted above, eye examinations can detect many health conditions before you’re aware of any obvious symptoms. From diabetes and high blood pressure to heart disease and various types of cancer, routine eye exams have been known to save lives through early detection.
Book your next eye test or get in touch if you’re noticing any changes to your vision.
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