In a recent discussion with Dr. Winston Ceesay, Consultant Ophthalmologist and CEO of the Sheikh Zayed Regional Eye Care Centre (SZRECC) in The Gambia, the KnowTheGlow team gained valuable insights into the strides being made, as well as the ongoing challenges, in addressing pediatric eye health, particularly retinoblastoma (Rb), in the region. Participating from KnowTheGlow were Co-Founder Megan Webber; Ruth Ngaruiya, Programs Manager – Africa; and Helene Dameris, Director of Global Outreach Programs. Dr. Ceesay was joined by his colleagues Amadou Bah, a Principal Ophthalmic Medical Assistant and hospital administrator, and Kato Kijera, an ophthalmic nurse and matron.
Although Rb is relatively rare in The Gambia, with around one case identified per month at SZRECC, early detection has been notably successful. This is largely due to a strong network of trained primary eye care workers across the country who can recognize early signs such as leukocoria,the telltale “glow” in a child’s eye and refer them for further assessment.
Treatment options, though, remain limited. Families are often faced with the difficult decision of enucleation, the surgical removal of the affected eye, which is currently the only option available locally. Understandably, this can be a challenging path for families to accept, especially when the eye appears cosmetically normal. In some instances, this may lead to delays in treatment, increasing the risk of the disease advancing to a more critical stage.
Dr. Ceesay noted that enhanced access to modern equipment such as laser technology, updated chemotherapy options, and advanced tools for examinations under anesthesia would significantly strengthen care delivery. Presently, the center relies on basic diagnostic tools and older-generation medication, which can limit both treatment effectiveness and patient comfort.
As a government-funded institution, SZRECC operates within a national health system that must balance a wide range of healthcare priorities. Given the rarity of Rb, it may not always be at the forefront of national planning. When advanced treatment is required, referrals to regional centers such as those in neighbouring countries like Senegal can be considered, though financial and logistical factors may influence a family’s ability to pursue care. In more remote communities, longstanding cultural practices and traditional healing methods may be the first step families take, underscoring the continued need for awareness-building and community engagement around early intervention.
Despite these hurdles, there are powerful stories of hope. Dr. Ceesay shared examples of children who received timely intervention and are now thriving as proof of what is possible when Rb is detected and managed early. Megan Webber emphasized the importance of awareness campaigns that highlight The Glow, raising visibility not only for Rb but also for other preventable causes of childhood blindness. Framing Rb within the larger context of pediatric eye health can also help shift public perception and inform future policy and funding decisions.
During the meeting, Helene Dameris introduced the Rb-NET platform, an international network dedicated to improving retinoblastoma care through global collaboration. She encouraged the Gambia team to participate in upcoming global Rb-Net meetings as an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and explore avenues for support, training, and partnership.
This exchange with Dr. Ceesay and his team reflects both the remarkable progress The Gambia has made in strengthening community eye care and the ongoing need for expanded resources. With continued engagements and growing awareness, there is real potential to improve outcomes for children with Rb and reinforce pediatric eye health across the region.
