Meet on ocular oncology opens today

Around 500 specialists from 45 countries are expected to attend the eleventh international congress of ocular oncology being held here from January 23 to 27.

The conference assumes a special significance as it particularly focuses on 'retinoblastoma,' the most prevalent eye cancer being reported in children in across the country.

According to Jerry A.Shields, the president of International Society of Ocular Oncology, and Arun D Singh, the chairman of organising committee of the conference, delegates will discuss and learn about the new methods available in treating eye cancers, specially the chemotherapy course that was developed as an effective alternate to radio therapy.

Retinoblastoma, a heriditary hazard, occurs in newborn babies and also in the children up to the age of 5-6 years. It occurs in children whose parents are blood related, they said.

About 1500 cases, or 25 per cent of the total cases reported around the world, are from India. So far, 500 cases are detected in AP and the children's eye hospital at LV Prasad eye institute reportedly gets 4-5 cases each week.