Country sees surge in ROP cases, prompting urgent call for awareness and timely screening: Expert warns

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 9th Apr, 2026) Health experts on Thursday expressed serious concern over rising cases of Retinopathy of Prematurity in Pakistan, which ranks fourth among countries affected, with 32-35 percent of premature infants at risk, stressing urgent screening and timely treatment.

A renowned eye specialist from Al Shifa, Dr. Aunaza Maqbool, explained that Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) occurs when abnormal blood vessels develop in the retina, adding, "If not detected through timely screening, ROP can progress to untreatable retinal detachments, ultimately causing permanent blindness.”

She added that symptoms in infants can include unusual eye movements, crossed eyes, white pupils, or difficulty focusing, though often the disease has no visible early signs, making screening critical. Babies born before 30 weeks of gestation or weighing less than approximately three Pounds are particularly at risk. Dr. Aunaza emphasized that early screening within four weeks after birth is essential to detect ROP before it causes irreversible damage. "Early identification is the key to preserving vision and preventing lifelong blindness,” she noted.

Dr. Aunaza highlighted the importance of awareness among parents and healthcare providers. “Many cases of ROP can be prevented if families understand the need for early screening and follow-up,” she said. She urged the parents of premature infants to seek timely examinations, emphasizing that prompt medical attention can save a child’s sight. "Al Shifa Hospital is actively providing free-of-cost ROP screening and treatment to ensure all at-risk infants have access to care. Laser therapy and other treatments are highly effective when applied promptly. Facilities like Al Shifa ensure that financial constraints do not prevent babies from receiving life-changing care,” Dr. Aunaza added.

Responding to a query, the expert warned that Pakistan is experiencing a sharp rise in childhood blindness, far exceeding global averages, adding, the country sees roughly twice the number of ROP cases compared to Western countries. She stressed that public awareness, free screening programs, and timely access to treatment like that offered at Al Shifa are critical to addressing this growing public health challenge.