Abstract

Study design: Retrospective observation study
Purpose: To study the incidence of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in rural towns of Bihar and effect of counseling in adopting the treatment.
Method: Within last 5 years, records of babies underwent ROP screening at a private eye center and those undergone ROP therapy at tertiary eye centers was analyzed. ROP Screening and classification were done using standard guidelines.
Results: The incidence of ROP in 936 patients screened was 6.6%. Mean gestational age (GA) and mean birth weight (BW) were 34.67+/- 2.3 weeks and 1965.34 +/- 345.4 gm . GA and BW were significantly lower in babies with ROP (p< 0.01). On analysis of the correlation of stage of ROP with BW and GA significant correlation was found (p value < 0.01). 88% of those needing therapy sought treatment.
Conclusion:: The incidence of ROP in this study is lesser compared to literature from other studies. With proper counseling the ROP management can be significantly improved.