The best way to prevent ROP is to avoid premature birth. Other measures include close monitoring of oxygen needs in premature babies. The baby should also have regular eye examinations by an ophthalmologist, especially if he or she has a high risk of ROP.

When to seek help

Babies born at less than 30 weeks gestation and weigh less than 1.3kg at birth should be screened for ROP, regardless of whether they had received supplemental oxygen. Babies who had a stormy neonatal period and need prolonged respiratory support with supplemental oxygen (especially if they were born under 35 weeks gestation) should also have their eyes checked.