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Why is there an increase in ROP in recent years?
Bulletin De La Societe Belge D'Ophtalmologie
|January 1, 1991
Summary
The incidence of blindness from retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) was stable but is now rising. This increase is linked to assisted reproduction, older mothers, and screening issues for premature infants.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neonatology
- Public Health
Background:
- Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a significant cause of visual impairment in premature infants.
- Historical data from the Netherlands showed a stable incidence of ROP-related blindness between 1975-1987.
- Recent trends suggest a concerning rise in ROP incidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the changing incidence of blindness and partial sight caused by ROP in the Netherlands.
- To identify potential contributing factors to the observed rise in ROP cases.
- To highlight the impact of screening challenges on ROP outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of ROP incidence data over a defined period.
- Correlation of incidence trends with demographic and reproductive factors.
- Evaluation of the role of ROP screening protocols and referral practices.
Main Results:
- The incidence of blindness and partial sight due to ROP remained constant at approximately 3/100,000 live births from 1975-1987.
- A subsequent increase in ROP incidence has been observed.
- Factors contributing to the rise include increased multiple births (twins, triplets) from assisted reproduction, higher mean maternal age, and challenges in screening "relatively low risk" infants.
Conclusions:
- The rising incidence of ROP-related visual impairment in the Netherlands requires urgent attention.
- Assisted reproductive technologies, advanced maternal age, and suboptimal screening practices are key drivers of this trend.
- Improved ROP screening strategies are crucial to mitigate visual impairment in premature infants.