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International Journal of Recent Trends in Science and Technology, ISSN 2277-2812 E-ISSN: 2249-8109

Volume 9, Issue 3, January 2014 pp 349-352

Research Article

Study of Retinopathy of Prematurity in Suburban Population in India

 

Sonal Agrawal

Assistant Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, KIMS Deemed University, Karad, Maharashtra, INDIA.


Academic Editor : Dr. Aher K.R.

Abstract

 

Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is avoidable disease requiring early detection and treatment to prevent blindness as targeted by "Vision 2020 Programme". The cost of screening and managing an infant is much lower than the lost productivity cost on the state exchequer. In developed countries severe ROP is generally limited to extremely preterm infants (weighing less than 1000gms at birth). In developing Countries with suboptimal neonatal care bigger, more mature babies (weighing 1500–2000 gms at birth) are also at risk of severe ROP. This study presents the incidence of ROP and important associated risk factors in the suburban population of India. Study was conducted in a referral centre Krishna Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Karad for a period of 2 years. Incidence of ROP was 18.50% in the 200 infants screened when the study group included infants with Birth weight <2000 gms, Gestational Age < 34 wks and oxygen therapy exposure > 30 days. Screening infants with <_32wks of gestational age and or <1500g birth weight increased the incidence of ROP to 25.8%. Low birth weight and gestational age are the important risk factors for ROP. Apnoea, Respiratory Distress Syndrome and Oxygen therapy are also independent risk factors and depend on the quality of neonatal care provided to the infant. These risk factors increase the incidence and severity of the ROP. National guideline for screening for ROP has to take into account country specific risk and health care conditions.