Whitathon 2026

Whitathon Run is L V Prasad Eye Institute’s annual cause-related event to raise awareness and funds for early diagnosis and treatment of Retinoblastoma, a life-threatening eye cancer in children. It is supported by Hyderabad Runners. Whitathon has grown by leaps and bounds since its inception in 2018, thanks to the enthusiastic running community of Hyderabad and our ever-expanding stream of supporters.   

The aim of the run is to raise awareness among the public about the White Reflex in a child’s eye being an early sign of eye cancer that needs immediate medical intervention.  

Treatment of Retinoblastoma is costly and prolonged. The funds raised through the run are used to provide free treatment for children from underprivileged families and to fund research into novel treatment options.  

Over the past decade, LVPEI has treated more than 2500 patients with retinoblastoma eye cancer. 

Why is awareness needed? 

• Among the cases of retinoblastoma treated at LVPEI, the child’s life was saved in 90% of the cases, but eyesight could be saved in only 45% of the cases, because of late presentation. 
•  Retinoblastoma (eye cancer) most commonly affects children below 3 years (90%).  
•  20 to 25% of cases of eye cancer worldwide in children are from India. 50% of cases worldwide lose their lives due to late detection and inadequate treatment.  
•  Retinoblastoma is curable if the tumour is detected and treated early; saving the child’s life, eye, and vision.  

 Why are funds needed? 

•  Retinoblastoma treatment plans are expensive and long.  
•  Over 60 to 65% of these patients cannot afford the cost of treatment.  

Participate with your family and friends and spread the word about White Reflex in a child’s eye being an early sign of eye cancer.  

We look forward to seeing you at Whitathon 2026 and being its ambassador !