National Campaign for early diagnosis of retinoblastoma in Brazil

Abstract

8561 Background: The incidence of retinoblastoma is higher in developing countries than in Europe and United States. In some developing countries, incidence rates per million may be two to six times higher or even more, since very little information is available from rural areas, where retinoblastoma appears to be particularly common. This tumor is characterized by a rapid growth rate. When the disease is detected at early stages and confined to the eye, children have a good prognosis. However, in children with disease that extents beyond the eye, specially to distant parts of the body, the five-year disease free survival is poor. The percentage of children with extraocular disease at diagnosis is much higher in developing countries (approximately 35 to 50%). Methods: The commonest early sign observed in children is leukocoria (cat's eye reflex). This easy sign to recognize offer a unique opportunity to call attention for retinoblastoma when it is still curable. Therefore a National Campaign for early diagnosis of Retinoblastoma in Brazil was initiated in September 2002 with the support of TUCCA (Children Brain Tumor Association) and INCTR(International Network for Cancer and Treatment Research). The campaign includes educational material for the population, for the primary health care workers and for ophtalmologists. A toll free number is available for information to the entire country. The video is on in different public channels in Brazil and was translated to 10 different languages. Results: More than 20 cases were already diagnosed through the campaign Conclusions: The initiative is cost effective. This experience can be a model to other coutries with similar problems. Routine dilated funduscopic examination is recommended. No significant financial relationships to disclose.