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Parental Awareness of Retinopathy of Prematurity in Türkiye: A Cross-Sectional Study
Mehmet Egemen Karatas1, Sumeyra Keles Yesiltas1, Semra Tiryaki Demir1
1Department of Ophthalmology, Şişli Hamidiye Etfal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye.
Insights
Parental awareness and knowledge of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) are low, with most parents unaware of its risks and screening differences. Higher education correlates with better ROP awareness, highlighting the need for improved parental education.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neonatology
- Public Health
Background:
- Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a significant cause of visual impairment in premature infants.
- Effective management of ROP relies heavily on timely screening and follow-up.
- Parental understanding of ROP is crucial for ensuring adherence to recommended care protocols.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess parental awareness, knowledge, and attitudes concerning retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).
- To evaluate parental understanding of ROP screening and follow-up procedures.
- To identify factors influencing parental knowledge about ROP.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 608 parents of high-risk infants at a tertiary ROP center in Turkey.
- A validated 15-item questionnaire assessed sociodemographic data, ROP knowledge, and follow-up attitudes.
- Statistical analysis explored the association between parental education level and ROP awareness.
Main Results:
- Only 16.6% of parents knew ROP screening differs from routine eye exams; 81% were unaware of ROP, and 86% did not know it can cause blindness.
- Information on ROP was received by only 14% of parents, primarily from physicians (63.5%) and the internet (34.1%).
- Higher educational attainment was significantly linked to greater ROP awareness and knowledge.
Conclusions:
- Parental knowledge regarding ROP examinations and its implications is generally low.
- Targeted educational interventions for parents and healthcare professionals are essential for improving ROP management.
- Enhancing parental education and awareness can improve adherence to ROP follow-up and long-term outcomes.
Objectives:
This study aimed to evaluate the awareness, knowledge, and attitudes of parents regarding retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and its follow-up in a tertiary referral center.
Methods:
In this cross-sectional survey conducted at a single ROP center in Turkey from March to August 2025, 608 parents of infants born at <34 weeks' gestation and/or ≤1700 g birth weight, and those of infants with higher gestational age or birth weight who required cardiopulmonary support, completed a validated 15-item questionnaire during their infant's first ROP examination. A structured questionnaire, including sociodemographic data, knowledge about ROP, its consequences, treatment options, and adherence to follow-up, was administered. Associations between parental education level and ROP awareness were analyzed.
Results:
Among 608 parents (59% mothers, 41% fathers; mean age 29.7±3.2 years), only 16.6% recognized that ROP screening differs from a routine eye exam. Overall, 81% were unaware of ROP, and 86% did not know it could cause blindness. Only 14% had received information about ROP, mainly from physicians (63.5%) or the internet (34.1%). While 71% were unsure about treatability and 37% acknowledged the importance of follow-up, 90% reported willingness to attend recommended visits. Higher educational level was significantly associated with ROP awareness (p<0.001), with university-educated parents showing the greatest knowledge (p<0.05).
Conclusion:
Parental knowledge regarding ROP examinations was generally found to be low. A higher level of knowledge about ROP was observed among university graduates. Efforts to improve adherence to ROP follow-up should include systematic training programs for healthcare professionals, structured guidance for parents, and the widespread implementation of educational materials. In this context, integrating targeted educational interventions into routine care may contribute to long-term success in ROP management.
