L V Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI) organised the eighth edition of ‘Whitathon’ to raise awareness about early detection of retinoblastoma, a rare eye cancer affecting children, and to generate funds for treatment and care.

The event marked World Retinoblastoma Awareness Week, observed from May 10–16.

The awareness run witnessed participation from nearly 2,000 runners across different categories, including a half marathon (21.1K), 10K, and 5K runs.

The event was attended by senior healthcare professionals and dignitaries including Dr. Prashant Garg, Executive Chairman of LVPEI; Dr. Vijay Anand Reddy, Director at Apollo Cancer Centres, Hyderabad; Arun Kumar Kalliapan, President of Hyderabad Runners; and Dr. Swathi Kaliki, Head of Operation Eyesight Universal Institute for Eye Cancer at LVPEI.

Dr. Prashant Garg highlighted the importance of awareness and early diagnosis in retinoblastoma, noting that delayed detection often reduces the chances of saving the child’s eye and, in severe cases, even the child’s life. He added that the initiative also aimed to ensure children are not denied treatment because of financial constraints.

Dr. Vijay Anand Reddy urged participants to spread awareness about the symptoms of retinoblastoma, especially the appearance of a white reflex in a child’s eye in photographs, which can be an early warning sign of the disease. 

Dr. Swathi Kaliki emphasized the need for educating parents and communities about the condition. She explained that the event derives its name ‘Whitathon’ from the white pupil reflex often seen in children affected by retinoblastoma.