Many types of health problems are seen in premature babies. One of these is retinopathy of prematurity. This is a serious disease in which small children lose their eyesight. In simple words, this disease is the main cause of blindness in childhood. Currently, India is going through an epidemic of retinopathy of prematurity,
Because the number of children born prematurely in India is the highest in the world. Let us know about this from experts. Dr. is giving information about this. Shalini Singh, MS, FCPS, FMRF, (Senior Consultant - Vitreo Retina) Dr. Shroff's Charity Eye Hospital
What is retinopathy of prematurity?
A disease called retinopathy of prematurity is seen in premature babies. This is an eye-related problem in which the blood vessels of the retina shrink. According to experts, when the child is growing in the stomach, the retina of his eyes is formed every 20 to 40 weeks. If for some reason the child is born before 9 months, the risk of this disease increases. According to experts, this risk remains in babies born before 34 weeks and weighing less than two kg. If a child is born prematurely, it is known that the retina does not develop. If this disease is detected within 30 days of birth then the accused can be stopped.
Why is the risk of retinopathy of prematurity increasing?
There is a lack of awareness among parents, doctors and people about the risk factors and symptoms of ROP, due to which the child becomes a victim of blindness in childhood itself. Apart from this, it is necessary to undergo screening to understand this disease. But these things are not available in villages or rural areas; hence children have to live with blindness throughout their lives.
Protect yourself like this
- Rope tests should be done after the birth of premature babies.
- It is best to get tested within 30 days of birth.
- To keep the eyes of a premature baby healthy, keep getting them checked every few days.
Image Credit- Freepik
