106 A new 55-year epidemiological study has provided a detailed look at the patterns of ocular cancer in Cali, Colombia. Published in 2024, the research draws on data collected by the Population Cancer Registry of Cali (RPCC) between 1962 and 2019, offering invaluable insights into the incidence, mortality, and survival rates of these rare but impactful diseases. The findings were published in the journal Ophthalmic Epidemiology. The study analysed 586 cases of malignant eye tumours, revealing a slight but persistent increase in incidence over the decades. On average, men experienced 7.8 cases per million annually, while women had 6.9 cases per million. This upward trend has been attributed to advances in diagnostic technologies, improved access to healthcare, and greater awareness of ocular health conditions. Among the most common types of ocular cancer were retinoblastoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, and lymphoma. Retinoblastoma dominated in children under 15, accounting for 85.7% of cases within this age group. The average age of diagnosis for retinoblastoma was just over two years. In contrast, for those aged over 14, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma emerged as the leading types, often appearing in individuals aged 45 and older. Environmental and occupational factors, such as prolonged sun exposure, were suggested as contributors to the higher prevalence of squamous cell carcinoma. The anatomical distribution of tumours highlighted the conjunctiva, retina, and orbit as the most frequently affected sites. Conjunctival tumours showed a significant increase in incidence over time, with researchers noting a strong correlation with outdoor occupations and intense sunlight exposure common in Cali’s climate. These findings underline the critical role of environmental factors in the development of certain cancer types. While the incidence rates have risen, mortality trends have remained stable. The five-year survival rate stood at 83.2%, reflecting improvements in early diagnosis and treatment options. Notably, the survival outcomes have shown gender disparities over time. Men initially had higher survival rates; however, women have demonstrated significant improvements in recent decades, reversing the earlier trend. Despite these encouraging survival statistics, challenges remain. Late-stage diagnoses are still common, particularly in lower-income communities where access to specialised care may be limited. The study emphasised the importance of early detection programmes and increased public awareness campaigns to bridge these gaps. Enhanced screening efforts could not only improve survival rates but also reduce the long-term healthcare burden associated with advanced cancer treatments. This comprehensive research highlights the multifaceted nature of ocular cancer, showcasing the interplay between biological, environmental, and socio-economic factors. The findings also point to the importance of population-based cancer registries like the RPCC, which enable long-term studies that inform public health strategies and clinical interventions. As the first of its kind in Latin America, this study serves as a foundational reference for understanding ocular cancer in the region. It opens the door for further research into the unique epidemiological characteristics of these diseases and paves the way for tailored healthcare policies to address local needs.