The College of Ophthalmology and Allied Vision Sciences (COAVS) at Mayo Hospital Lahore hosted a seminar on retinopathy in premature newborns, spotlighting both the prevalence and prevention of this vision-threatening condition. Dr. Umar Khalil Mian, MD from Montefiore Medical Center and Associate Professor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, attended as a guest of honor.
The event aimed to raise awareness of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), foster collaborative strategies among healthcare professionals, and recognize Dr. Umar Khalil Mian’s contributions to preventing ROP-induced blindness in children across Pakistan.
ROP is a significant cause of blindness among prematurely born infants, particularly those born before 35 weeks, weighing less than two kilograms, or requiring supplemental oxygen. With improved survival rates for premature infants in Pakistan, early diagnosis of ROP has become critical to prevent what could become a widespread condition leading to lifelong blindness. To mitigate this risk, experts emphasized the necessity of timely eye examinations by an ophthalmologist for preterm infants within their first month.
The seminar was attended by an array of medical professionals, including King Edward Medical University Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mahmood Ayaz, COAVS Principal Prof. Muhammad Moin, Prof. Emeritus Asad Aslam Khan, Pediatrics Department Chairman Prof. Dr. Haroon Hamid, and numerous other esteemed faculty and students.
COAVS Principal Prof. Dr. Muhammad Moin outlined a pilot project being implemented in the districts of Sheikhupura, Muridke, and Kamonki. The initiative seeks to provide accessible eye care for premature infants in these regions, aiming to reduce blindness rates through timely intervention. Dr. Umar Khalil Mian commended this effort, describing it as a pivotal advancement in the healthcare sector that expands essential services to underserved areas.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mahmood Ayaz expressed optimism about the program, underscoring the significance of early ROP diagnosis and treatment for children in remote areas. Prof. Dr. Haroon Hamid detailed the vital role pediatricians play in ROP prevention, while Prof. Emeritus Asad Aslam shared his insights on tackling ROP at the provincial level, underscoring the need for innovative approaches.
In a concluding ceremony, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mahmood Ayaz, in the presence of distinguished guests, honored Dr. Umar Khalil Mian and newly appointed associate professors in ophthalmology, recognizing their contributions to advancing ROP treatment and awareness in Pakistan.
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