How common is retinopathy of prematurity?
More than 80 percent of premature babies who weigh less than 2.2 lbs. (1 kg) will develop retinopathy of prematurity. Improved treatment, including laser to the undeveloped retinal area, has reduced the devastating effects of ROP on the eye, yet worldwide it remains a leading cause of pediatric retinal blindness. Prevention of retinopathy of prematurity Prenatal care can reduce the risk of premature birth. Careful management of premature babies in the nursery and early screening with timely treatment when indicated can prevent blindness or reduce vision loss in milder cases of ROP. Treatment of retinopathy of prematurity Retinopathy of prematurity is most effectively treated with laser surgery to burn the immature areas of the retina, where abnormal blood vessels tend to grow. If the retina detaches, surgery may be performed to re-secure it. What ORBIS is doing about retinopathy of prematurity in developing countries ORBIS is training pediatric ophthalmologists in appropriate and susta
