Retinoblastoma: a silent threat to children’s visionNews Hello Vizag

Visakhapatnam: Retinoblastoma, a type of eye cancer, poses a significant threat to the vision and lives of young children, especially those below the age of three.

This age group represents 90% of cases of retinoblastoma. Unfortunately, around 50% of affected children worldwide succumb to the disease due to late detection and inadequate treatment. Experts emphasize that early detection and prompt treatment are crucial to curing retinoblastoma and saving lives and vision.

In an effort to raise awareness about retinoblastoma, the LV Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI) organized the third edition of its annual Whitathon on Sunday. The event, comprising 3km, 5km and 10km races, was held on the picturesque Beach Road in Visakhapatnam.

The event was inaugurated by Retinoblastoma survivor Vanumu Chandrasekhar and Arjuna award winner and boxing coach Seera Jayaram. Participants included members of the general public, Vizag Runners, Indian Medical Association, Omega Cancer Hospital and LVPEI staff. Vanumu Chandrasekhar, who received free treatment for retinoblastoma at LVPEI’s GMR Varalakshmi campus in Visakhapatnam, shared his inspiring story of survival and recovery.

Dr Virender Sachdeva, Director, LVPEI Visakhapatnam Campus, highlighted the importance of creating awareness among parents, caregivers and the community. He explained the common symptoms of retinoblastoma: “The most common symptom is a white reflex, a white or yellowish-white glow in the pupil, often visible in photos taken with a flash. Other symptoms include poor vision, redness of the eye, and squinting.”

Eye cancer specialist Dr Suneetha Gavara highlighted the curability of retinoblastoma if detected and treated early. “Early detection and treatment can save a child’s life, eyes and vision,” she said. Dr Gavara said he was delighted with the participation in the Whitathon, urging participants to raise awareness of the symptoms of retinoblastoma within their communities.

The Whitathon, launched in 2018 in Hyderabad, is an annual event organized by LVPEI to raise awareness and funds for children affected by retinoblastoma. The event has since expanded to other cities including Bhubaneswar, Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam.

India accounts for 20-25% of global cases of retinoblastoma in children, highlighting the critical need for increased awareness and rapid medical intervention. The success of the Whitathon reflects a growing commitment to tackling this silent threat and ensuring better outcomes for affected children.

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