John Baron MP raises awareness of Childhood Eye Cancers

John with Hannah Matin, who had retinoblastoma as a child and who now works in Parliament

MP encourages parents to learn signs and symptoms

Having recently attended a Parliamentary reception hosted by the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust, John Baron MP said,

“I would like to thank the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust for running their excellent event in Parliament, as well as the parents and patients who helped make the informative afternoon such a success.”

“The symptoms of retinoblastoma can be easily missed, and as with all cancers early diagnosis is key. I would encourage doctors and parents alike to become better acquainted with the tell-tale signs of the condition – prompt diagnosis greatly increases the chances of successful treatment.”

Patrick Tonks, Chief Executive of the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust, said,

“Retinoblastoma is rare, with around 50 cases diagnosed in the UK each year, so many doctors will never come across it in their career. In addition to this, the symptoms can be quite subtle and children often seem well in themselves which makes it hard to diagnose. Unfortunately this can lead to alarming delays and we know that early diagnosis can potentially offer more treatment options and a better outcome for the child.”

“We are so grateful to the MPs like John Baron who attended our Parliamentary Drop-In Event and pledged to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of childhood eye cancer with parents and healthcare professionals in their constituencies.”

Notes to Editors:

• The Childhood Eye Cancer Trust has produced a leaflet with signs and symptoms of retinoblastoma, available online at: http://chect.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Would-you-recognise-it.pdf.