Once upon a time, babies used to die because they were born too soon. Then came the discovery that exposing these babies to high oxygen levels could actually save their lives. So the oxygen campaign became rampant, and many babies began to survive. Unfortunately, in the 1940s, it became apparent that, though these babies survived, many of them were coming down with severe visual impairment and blindness. Evidence pointed to oxygen as the culprit. The use of oxygen in neonatal units was therefore curtailed.

In the 1970s, neonatal intensive care units became better equipped to care for and monitor premature babies. But again, there was the re-emergence of the sight-threatening condition of the 1940s (now known as 'Retinopathy of Prematurity'). What else could be responsible? More research showed that oxygen was not the only culprit. The main risk factor was prematurity. Other factors include low birth weight, severity of infection and quality of care during the first few weeks of life. And the solution? Moderation in the use of oxygen therapy, adequate care and support, and screening for at risk preterm babies.

November is 'Prematurity Awareness Month' and the spotlight is on 'Retinopathy of Prematurity'.

Photo credit: GERTFRIK/123RF https://cehjournal.org/retinopathy-of-prematurity-it-is-time-to-take-action/