Cancer and vision loss are two scourges that affect millions of people. Yet, considerable progress has been made in prevention, screening, and treatment. This article aims to inform, without ever replacing medical advice, about actions that can save lives and preserve vision.
Introduction
Cancer and eye diseases are among the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Yet, a third of cancers could be prevented through simple preventative measures: quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, exercising, and protecting yourself from the sun. Similarly, regular screenings allow for the early detection of tumors or eye diseases (glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy) before they lead to irreversible damage.
This article presents essential information on prevention and screening, without ever giving medical advice. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment.
Understanding the problem
Cancer and vision loss share common risk factors: aging, smoking, UV exposure, an unbalanced diet, and certain genetic predispositions. But they also have their own specific characteristics. Cancer is a cellular disease characterized by uncontrolled proliferation. Vision loss can result from diseases of the lens (cataracts), the optic nerve (glaucoma), the retina (age-related macular degeneration, retinopathy), or eye tumors.
Common and specific risk factors
- Smoking: a major risk factor for many cancers and for AMD.
- Sun exposure: UV rays are responsible for skin cancers and cataracts.
- Diet: excess sugars, saturated fats, deficiency in antioxidants.
- Sedentary lifestyle: promotes obesity, a risk factor for several cancers.
- Family history: genetic predisposition to certain cancers and glaucomas.
- Age: the main risk factor for most cancers and eye diseases.
Prevention and screening: powerful tools
Key actions:
- Quitting smoking: the most effective preventative measure.
- A varied diet: fruits, vegetables, fiber, oily fish.
- Physical activity: at least 30 minutes per day.
- Sun protection: sunglasses that filter UVA/UVB rays.
- Screenings: mammography, colonoscopy, smear test, regular fundus examination.
Important: These measures reduce the risks, but do not eliminate them. Consult your doctor regularly.
Signs not to ignore
- For cancer: unexplained weight loss, persistent fatigue, lump, abnormal bleeding, change in the color of a mole.
- For eyesight: sudden or gradual decrease in visual acuity, blurred vision, eye pain, flashes of light, veil before the eyes.
- General signs: unexplained fever, night sweats, chronic pain.
When should you consult a doctor?
- As soon as any persistent abnormal symptom appears .
- In case of eye pain or sudden impaired vision .
- For an annual health check-up after age 50 (or earlier in case of risk factors).
- If you have a family history of cancer or glaucoma.
- Before any major lifestyle change (diet, sport).
Which specialist should I consult?
- General practitioner: for an initial assessment and referral.
- Oncologist: in case of suspicion or diagnosis of cancer.
- Ophthalmologist: for a complete eye exam (fundus examination, tonometry).
- Gynecologist: for female screenings (mammography, smear test).
- Gastroenterologist: for screening colonoscopy.
- Dermatologist: for the examination of moles.
What should you not do yourself?
- Do not ignore the warning signs hoping that it will pass.
- Do not rely on “natural remedies” to treat cancer or eye disease.
- Do not stop a prescribed treatment without consulting a doctor.
- Do not use eye drops or eye products without a prescription.
- Do not attempt to replace a professional in interpreting tests or symptoms.
The importance of psychological support
Facing cancer or vision loss is a difficult ordeal. The support of a psychologist, support groups, or patient associations is often invaluable. Don’t hesitate to discuss this with your doctor.
