Retinoblastoma management during the COVID-19 pandemic: A report by the Global Retinoblastoma Study Group including 194 centers from 94 countries

A report published by the Global Retinoblastoma Group in May 2020, led by Sheba’s prof. Ido Didi Fabian, addressed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the management of retinoblastoma, the most common childhood eye cancer. A global survey involving over 190 treatment centers from 94 countries demonstrated significant disruptions in patient care, potentially endangering the lives of those affected. The study found that travel restrictions, as well as fewer medical staff and equipment, prevented life-saving procedures such as enucleation (removal of the eye) and intravenous chemotherapy. The survey emphasized the need for policymakers to carefully consider the balance between managing the COVID-19 crisis and ensuring continued access to crucial medical services, especially for highly treatable yet potentially fatal diseases like retinoblastoma.