What Causes Eye Cancer

When cells within your eyes multiply and grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour, it is eye cancer. It is a rare but serious condition that can start in different parts of the eye, including the eyeball, tissues surrounding the eyeball, tear glands, or eyelids. Compared to other cancers, it is hard to detect eye cancer in its early stages as the symptoms go unnoticed. So, the best way to prevent it is by understanding the potential causes of eye cancer and risk factors. 

Causes of Eye Cancer

The exact cause of most eye cancers is still unknown. Scientists believe there are some factors which increase the risk of developing it. These include:

1. Age

The risk of eye cancer increases with age. Hence, it is more common in older individuals, with the average age of diagnosis being around 60 years.

2. Race

White people are at greater risk of developing eye cancer as compared to Asian, Hispanic, or Black people.

3. Light eye colour

People with light-coloured eyes, such as blue or green eyes, are at a slightly higher risk, though the reason is not known.

4. Genetic mutations

Certain mutations in genes like BAP1, which are passed from parents to children, can increase the risk of eye cancer, particularly uveal melanoma.

5. Cancer syndromes

Inherited cancer syndromes like dysplastic nevus syndrome have a role in raising the risk of eye melanomas and skin cancer.

6. Exposure to UV radiation

Research suggests that being exposed to ultraviolet radiation for prolonged periods, whether from sunlight or tanning beds, can raise the risk of eye cancer.

7. Moles

The risk of developing eye cancer increases if you have unusual colour or irregularly shaped moles (called atypical moles). Atypical moles have a tendency to become cancerous.

Conclusion

Eye cancer usually doesn’t have any noticeable symptoms. Hence, being aware of the risk factors and going for regular eye check-ups will help in the early diagnosis and management of this dreaded disease. If you are at risk, having a comprehensive health insurance policy will go a long way in reducing the financial burden associated with cancer.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.