The rate of premature babies with retinopathy of prematurity and visual impairment is highest when the gestational age is less than 28 weeks, accompanied by a low birth weight of less than 1.5 kg. Screening and treatment for retinopathy of prematurity should be best performed within 3 - 4 weeks after birth.

Retinopathy of prematurity is one of the challenges faced by premature babies. The stages of retinopathy of prematurity progress quite quickly, from mild to severe, and can cause blindness if not intervened promptly.

Retinopathy of prematurity is a potentially blinding eye disorder that occurs primarily in infants weighing less than 1.5 kg (3.3 lb) or who are born before 31 weeks of gestation. The smaller the baby, the more likely it is to develop retinopathy. This disorder is one of the most common causes of vision loss and visual impairment in children.

Premature babies born before 37 weeks of gestation are at risk for retinopathy of prematurity. Retinopathy of prematurity can be prevented and treated, but if premature babies’ eyes are not properly cared for, they are at risk of vision loss or permanent blindness.

Many premature babies survive, but are at risk of permanent blindness in both eyes due to untreated retinopathy of prematurity. Treatment of retinopathy of prematurity requires early and aggressive action.

If retinopathy of prematurity is not detected and treated early, the child may permanently lose both eyes. Therefore, parents should note that premature, premature or mildly premature babies need to be screened for retinopathy of prematurity as soon as possible.