L V Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI)’s annual flagship event, Whitathon was held on May 10, at the University of Hyderabad to raise awareness about the importance of early detection of Retinoblastoma, an eye cancer in children and to raise funds for its treatment. The event was organized to commemorate the World Retinoblastoma Awareness Week, observed from May 10 – 16, this year.
The treatment for retinoblastoma is costly and prolonged, with over 60 to 65% of patients unable to afford the treatment. LVPEI, through its annual Whitathon raises funds to provide free treatment to children from financially disadvantaged communities and to support research that explores advanced treatment options.
About 20-25% of cases of eye cancer in children worldwide, are from India. Around 50% of cases worldwide lose their lives due to late detection. The condition is curable if the tumor is detected early and appropriate treatment is provided. Hence awareness about early detection is essential.
Over the past decade, LVPEI has provided over 2500 treatments for retinoblastoma at no cost to patient families. Among the cases referred to LVPEI, the child’s life was saved in 90% of the cases while eyesight could be saved only in 45% cases, due to delay in diagnosis.
This year, almost 2000 participants took part in the event. The run featured four categories – 3K, 5K, 10K and 21K (half marathon) and was graced with the presence of the following dignitaries:
Dr Prashant Garg, Executive Chair, LVPEI
Dr Vijay Anand Reddy, Director, Apollo Cancer Hospital
Mr Arun Kumar Kalliappan, President, Hyderabad Runners
Dr Swathi Kaliki, Head, The Operation Eyesight Universal Institute for Eye Cancer and the Ophthalmic Plastic Services, LVPEI
Sri Venkatesh Reddy, Regional Sales Manager, Alcon Laboratories India Pvt. Ltd
Dr Merle Fernandez, Campus Head, LVPEI, Kallam Anji Reddy (KAR) Campus
Sri Ch Srinivasa Rao, Deputy General Manager (DGM), Corporate Communications, NMDC
The dignitaries flagged off the different race categories.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Prashant Garg highlighted the need for awareness about retinoblastoma and for its early detection. He said, “When a child suffers from any illness, it impacts not only their health but also their overall growth and development. The biggest challenge with Retinoblastoma is that many parents fail to recognize the symptoms at an early stage. By the time it becomes visibly noticeable and is diagnosed, it is often too late to save the eye, and in some cases, even saving the child’s life becomes difficult. This is why awareness and early detection are critical.” He further thanked the participants and volunteers and mentioned how their contribution will ensure that no child will be denied timely treatment and care due to lack of funds.
Dr Vijay Reddy also urged everyone present at the event to spread awareness about retinoblastoma symptoms among their peers and social circles. He further added, “Retinoblastoma primarily affects children below the age of four, and early detection can make a life-changing difference. One important sign parents should watch for is while taking a photograph of the child — if a white, glowing reflection or spot appears in the center of the eye instead of the normal red reflex, it is crucial to consult a doctor immediately. Early diagnosis can help save not only the eye but also the child’s life.“
Supported by Hyderabad Runners, Whitathon has only been growing in numbers since its inception in 2018, thanks to the active running community in Hyderabad and the consistent stream of supporters for the cause.