Cancer Prevention for Retinoblastoma Survivors

Visit your health care provider regularly for cancer screening

Screening can detect cancer early, when it is more treatable. If you are a survivor of hereditary retinoblastoma, it is important to inform your health care provider that you may be at increased risk for certain cancers, such as soft tissue sarcomas (cancers of smooth muscle cells), bone cancer, and melanoma. Some female survivors have been diagnosed with a soft tissue cancer of the uterus, called a leiomyosarcoma (a rare type of uterine cancer). The age at diagnosis for Retinoblastoma survivors with this type of cancer has been 30-40, similar to that of the general population. We recommend regular check-ups with complete physical and skin exams for these cancers.

Women should obtain regular mammograms starting at age 40. These screening tests can detect cancer early.

Early detection of second cancers

Retinoblastoma survivors enjoy long productive lives, and most do not develop additional cancers. However, if you were diagnosed with Retinoblastoma in both eyes and/or received radiation treatment, you have a higher risk of developing another form of cancer.  Since being at increased risk for additional cancers can feel scary, you should discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider and other members of your health care team.

How to minimize your chances of getting another cancer

You can minimize your chance of developing some second cancers by choosing these healthy behaviors:

Guidelines to reduce sun exposure

Visit the American Cancer Society web site for skin cancer self-screening tipsExternal Web Site Policy.