About Us
Open Eyes Nepal is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation established in 2021 initiated by a young group of members and led by Dr. Purnima Rajkarnikar Sthapit, who is an ocular oncologist and oculoplastic surgeon.
We have already collaborated with Open Eyes Global, Australia –a charity organization raising funds to help Retinoblastoma patients in Nepal, for treatment and rehabilitation. See http://openeyesglobal.org . We have also collaborated with Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology for financially supporting treatment of Retinoblastoma patients. See www.tilganga.org.
The main purpose of Open Eyes Nepal is
To spread awareness about early detection of retinoblastoma
To make the treatment easy and affordable and distribute prosthetic eye free of cost for financially challenged parents.
To form a support group for parents of newly diagnosed retinoblastoma children.
To raise awareness with pediatricians for routine eye examination to detect early signs of Retinoblastoma.
What Is Retinoblastoma
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Open Eyes Nepal
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What Is Retinoblastoma 〰️ Open Eyes Nepal 〰️
A Childhood Eye Cancer with Life-Threatening Risks
Retinoblastoma is the most common eye cancer in children aged 0-5, affecting 1 in 15,000 live births worldwide, with around 50 new cases annually in Nepal. Without treatment, the mortality rate is 95%, while early detection through the “white eye reflex” significantly improves survival chances.
In Nepal, late diagnosis due to low awareness and financial constraints leads to advanced-stage detection, requiring prolonged treatment with higher mortality rates. Many families struggle to afford treatment, often discontinuing care. Even after successful enucleation surgery, the cost of prosthetic eyes remains a major challenge, leaving many children without proper rehabilitation.
Retinoblastoma Week
Retinoblastoma Week is dedicated to raising awareness about retinoblastoma, the most common eye cancer in children. Observed globally, this week highlights the importance of early detection through the "white eye reflex," which can save lives and vision. In Nepal, where late diagnosis is a major challenge, we focus on educating parents, healthcare providers, and communities about the signs, treatment options, and the need for financial and medical support. Join us in spreading awareness and ensuring that no child loses their sight—or life—due to late detection.
Causes & Prevention
Retinoblastoma occurs when nerve cells in the retina develop genetic mutations. These mutations cause the cells to continue growing and multiplying when healthy cells would die. This accumulating mass of cells forms a tumor. Retinoblastoma cells can invade further into the eye and nearby structures
As it is a result of genetic mutation, it can’t be prevented but only treated. The goals of treating retinoblastoma are to cure the cancer, preserve as much vision as possible and lower the risk of late side effects.