The fifth edition of ‘Whitathon’ organised by the LV Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI), to raise awareness about the early detection of Retinoblastoma (eye cancer) in children and funds for its treatment, received overwhelming response on Sunday. The walk organised from Kali Matha Temple to the YMCA on the RK Beach Road saw scores of enthusiastic participants.

According to the organisers, the event commemorates the ‘World Retinoblastoma Awareness Week’, observed between May 10 to 16, this year.

During the programme, Ocular Oncologist at LVPEI’s GMR Varalakshmi Campus, Dr Suneetha, spoke on the need to create awareness about the symptoms of retinoblastoma among the public.

“If you spot a white pupil reflex in a child’s eye, in a flash photograph, immediately consult an ophthalmologist. Early detection and treatment can save the child’s vision and life,” she said.

Head, GMR Varalakshmi campus, Dr. Virender Sachdeva, said that the funds raised from the Whitathon run are utilised to treat underprivileged children suffering from Retinoblastoma at no cost, and to support future research. This year, around 280 enthusiastic participants joined the cause, demonstrating strong community support for the event, he said, adding that from the funds raised through the Whitathon, LVPEI has till date offered over 3,000 treatments free of cost. Annually, the institute treats 150 to 200 new cases of Retinoblastoma across the network, he added.