31/07/2026
🎗️ CANCER AND YOUR EYES: WHAT EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW 👁️
When people hear the word cancer, they often think of organs such as the breast, lungs, prostate, or liver. However, many people are unaware that cancer can also affect the eyes and vision. This can happen because cancer starts in the eye itself, spreads from another part of the body, or as a side effect of cancer treatment.
How can cancer affect the eyes?
1. Cancer that starts in the eye
Although uncommon, some cancers develop directly in the eye. Examples include retinoblastoma, which mainly affects children, and uveal melanoma, the most common eye cancer in adults. If not detected early, these cancers can threaten both vision and life.
2. Cancer that spreads to the eye
Cancers of the breast, lung, prostate, and blood (such as leukemia and lymphoma) can spread to the eye or the tissues surrounding it. This may lead to visual disturbances and other eye problems.
3. Side effects of cancer treatment
Treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy can affect the eyes. Some patients may experience:
- Dry, burning, or watery eyes
- Blurred or double vision
- Sensitivity to bright light
- Eye pain or redness
- Changes in colour vision
- Cataracts after radiation treatment
- Damage to the optic nerve or retina in rare cases
Warning signs you should never ignore
Seek an eye examination immediately if you experience:
- Sudden loss of vision
- Persistent blurred or double vision
- New flashes of light or floaters
- A painful red eye
- Swelling around the eye
- A white reflection in a child's pupil (especially in photographs)
- A lump on the eyelid or eye that continues to grow
Can vision be protected?
Yes. Many eye complications related to cancer can be treated or controlled when detected early. Regular eye examinations before, during, and after cancer treatment can help identify problems before permanent vision loss occurs.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, don't focus only on the rest of the body—protect your eyesight too. Your eyes are an important part of your overall health.
Visit Athena Eyeclinic for a comprehensive eye examination.
📍 41 Oliver Agbo Street, Meniru, Agbani Road, Enugu
📞 08066409647
💬 WhatsApp: 07034749047
Athena Eyeclinic
Your Vision Is Our Priority.