Rawalpindi  -  The biggest challenge in treating childhood eye cancer in Pakistan is delayed diagnosis, as many parents and general doctors are unaware of early symptoms, said an expert at Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital on Monday.

Prof. Dr. Tayyab Afghani, Senior Consultant and Head of Oculoplastics at the hospital, said rural areas suffer the most due to a lack of specialists. He added that the high cost of treatment, ranging from Rs 300,000 to Rs 800,000, is another major issue, as many families cannot afford chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Dr. Afghani emphasized the role of genetics in childhood eye cancer, recommending genetic testing for parents to assess risks. He noted that Al-Shifa Trust provides free treatment, including chemotherapy and follow-ups, through donor support. The Eye Cancer Centre at Al-Shifa Eye Hospital Rawalpindi is the only facility in Pakistan equipped to handle complex cases.

Over the past four years, it has registered 7,500 eye cancer cases, successfully treating 3,000 patients, with ongoing treatment for others. Around 85 to 87 percent of patients are children, some of whom are born with the disease.

The hospital maintains an 80 percent success rate in treatment. Dr. Afghani stressed that many cases remain undiagnosed until the cancer reaches an advanced stage, reducing the chances of successful treatment. He urged greater awareness among parents and general practitioners to recognize early signs such as a white pupil, crossed eyes, vision loss, redness, or swelling.

He highlighted the need for more government and private sector support to improve access to timely and effective treatment, despite ongoing awareness campaigns and screening initiatives.