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Last Updated on September 26, 2023 by Aditi Gangal
Eye cancer, also known as ocular cancer, refers to the abnormal growth of cells in the eye. While eye cancer is relatively rare, it is essential to understand the potential causes that can contribute to its development. Once we have understood the causes, we can better understand the process through which eye cancer is diagnosed, staged and treated. In this article, we will explore various factors that can cause eye cancer.
What are the genetic risk factors of eye cancer?
Genetic predisposition can play a significant role in the development of eye cancer. Certain inherited genetic mutations can increase the risk of ocular malignancies. For instance, individuals with a family history of eye cancer, such as retinoblastoma, have an increased likelihood of developing the condition themselves. Retinoblastoma is a rare form of eye cancer that typically affects young children. Genetic mutations in the RB1 gene are responsible for this type of cancer. Therefore, a person’s genetic makeup and family history can significantly impact their susceptibility to eye cancer.
What are the environmental risk factors of eye cancer?
Several environmental factors have been identified as potential contributors to the development of eye cancer. These include:
Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation: Excessive exposure to UV radiation can cause eye cancer. This risk is more prevalent in people working as welders. People using sunbeds are also exposed to artificial ultraviolet radiation. Moreover, some people also have a habit of gazing the sun especially during solar eclipse. Sun gazing poses a significant danger to the eyes due to the intense UV radiation it emits.
Prolonged and unprotected exposure to UV rays can damage the DNA in the cells of the eye, leading to mutations and the potential formation of cancerous cells. It is crucial to protect the eyes from UV radiation by wearing sunglasses with UV protection and a wide-brimmed hat when spending time outdoors.
Chemical Exposure: Certain chemicals and substances have been linked to eye cancer. Industrial chemicals, such as formaldehyde and benzene, have been associated with an increased risk of ocular malignancies. Additionally, long-term exposure to asbestos, a mineral fiber commonly found in construction materials, can elevate the risk of developing eye cancer, particularly mesothelioma of the eye.
What are some other risk factors of eye cancer?
People with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) are at risk of developing a certain type of eye cancer. Also, the human papillomavirus (HPV) is also linked to a certain type of eye cancer. Besides this, people who receive drugs that suppress the immune system for a long duration as treatment for inflammation in the eye are at a higher risk of developing eye cancer. Rarely, people with Crohn’s disease may develop a type of eye cancer.
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