How to Prevent Eye Cancer

Eye cancer is a form of cancer that first afflicts any segment of the eye itself, aside from the eyelid. While relatively rare, eye cancer is still considered a serious diagnosis and treatments can vary. Like any cancer, there are specific risk factors associated with eye cancer. Likewise, there are a handful of ways in which individuals can protect themselves from contracting the disease.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Computer with Internet connection

Learn the Risk Factors Associated With Eye Cancer

1. Find out if your family has ever had a history of eye cancer or other forms of cancer, as this contributes to your risk.

2. Know the risk factors associated with eye cancer. Major factors include blue eyes, inherited melanoma, prolonged exposure to the sun and extensive time spent welding.

3. Report any abnormal eye functions and pain to your doctor as soon as they develop.

4. Don't wait for symptoms to become unavoidable before you find out what the cause may be. An early diagnosis can result in a more effective and less invasive treatment.

Take Action to Prevent Eye Cancer

1. Keep your immune system healthy through diet, exercise, proper nutrition and safe sexual habits.

2. Try not to spend long periods of time exposed to the sun's rays.

3. Wear protective eye-wear that blocks at least 99 percent of ultraviolet rays.

4. Limit your exposure to radiation and welding.

5. Prevent exposure of your eyes to harmful chemicals and carcinogens.

6. Talk to your doctor about any other specific steps you can take if you are at risk.

Tips & Warnings

• You have the right to seek treatment from a specialist if you feel it is ever necessary. Don't just rely on a general practitioner for assistance with series diseases such as cancer. Request an expert and seek a second opinion if you feel it is necessary.

• Eye cancer rarely has serious symptoms until far along in the process. It's therefore important to have regular eye exams to catch an early diagnosis.

• If you have any other form of cancer, talk to your doctor about the likelihood of it spreading to your eyes.

• A diagnosis of cancer is a painful burden. Treatments require substantial focus and strength, so don't hesitate to reach out for therapy and emotional support during this ordeal.

• If you are experiencing any critical symptoms such as severe pain, bleeding or discharge from your eyes, get immediate medical attention.