Retinopathy of prematurity: incidence and risk factors

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) remains a leading cause of avoidable childhood visual impairment and blindness worldwide. The incidence of ROP varies among countries, being influenced both by levels of neonatal care and developmental stage of populations. Incidence of ROP has been decreasing in developed countries over the past 10 years and ROP has become potentially confined to immature neonates with birth weights almost always less than 1000 g, that is, extreme low birth-weight infants in these countries. By contrast, the incidence of ROP has been increasing in developing or poorly developed countries, and more mature neonates may develop severe ROP in these countries. Various risk factors correlate with the occurrence of ROP but gestational age and birth weight in particular are the most important and well-documented risk factors. To decrease the risk of ROP in very low birth-weight infants, efforts should be taken to prevent preterm delivery and premature birth. Further research is necessary to fully understand and determine the incidence and prevent the disease; however, appropriate screening programs, standard neonatal care and treatment strategies will be important in reducing visual impairment due to ROP.