Kayunga Regional Referral Hospital buzzed with purpose on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, as Dr. Iddi Ndyabawe, an esteemed ophthalmologist and Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) specialist, conducted a sight-saving ROP screening camp, the first ever to be held in the region. The initiative, facilitated by the Preterm Infants Parents Network - Uganda,headed by Mr. Bazilio Kateregga the CEO of the NGO, marked a significant step in addressing preventable blindness in premature babies.
 

What is Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)?
Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is a potentially blinding eye condition affecting premature infants, particularly those born before 36 weeks of gestation or weighing less than 2,000 grams at birth. ROP occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Without timely detection and treatment, advanced stages of ROP can lead to irreversible blindness, underscoring the importance of early screening and intervention.
 

Kayunga Hospital: A Strategic Venue for Impact
Kayunga Regional Referral Hospital, located approximately 74 kilometers from Kampala City, serves as a critical healthcare hub for the central region of Uganda. The hospital’s NICU plays a pivotal role in caring for preterm and low-birth-weight infants, making it a prime location for ROP screening and advocacy.
 

Building on a Legacy of ROP Advocacy.
Dr. Iddi Ndyabawe has been a driving force in ROP awareness and care across Uganda. Screening over 180 preterm babies monthly and conducting regular screenings at Kawempe Hospital, Mulago Specialized Women and Neonatal Hospital, Kiwoko Hospital, Kisubi Hospital, and others, he has identified and treated numerous cases of ROP. Dr. Ndyabawe’s dedication has been amplified through partnerships with organizations like Preterm Infant Parents Network-Uganda among others enabling timely ROP screening and treatment for preterm infants.
 

A Warm Welcome and a Day of Action
The Kayunga screening camp commenced with a warm reception by hospital leadership, including Hospital Director Dr. Robert Sentongo,Principal Hospital Administrator Mr. Mpanga Robert, Head Paediatrician Dr. Sophie Nakitto, and NICU in-charge Sister Biribawa Rosemary. Dr. Iddi’s visit coincided with the hospital’s World Prematurity Day celebrations, providing a fitting platform to amplify the message of ROP prevention and care.
Dr. Iddi delivered a compelling talk to hospital staff and parents, shedding light on ROP’s causes, risk factors, and preventive measures. His presentation emphasized the urgent need for early screening, particularly for preterm infants at risk. He also emphasized the role of strict monitoring of oxygen therapy in reducing the risk of ROP; as he recommended the saturation levels to be between 90-95% and that NICUs should be availed with blended oxygen. Parents were encouraged to advocate for their babies’ eye health and to understand the critical timelines for ROP detection and treatment.
 

Screening Results and a Call to Action
A total of 22 babies were screened during the camp, with four identified as having treatment requiring ROP. These babies were promptly recommended for intravitreal bevacizumab injections, a highly effective treatment, to be administered within one week. Early intervention offers these infants a chance to avoid blindness and thrive with healthy vision.
 

The Way Forward
Dr. Iddi Ndyabawe’s work at Kayunga is a testament to the trans-formative power of ROP advocacy and screening. By extending ROP care to regional hospitals, he is bridging gaps in neonatal eye health and ensuring preterm infants receive the care they need. The partnership with Preterm Infants.
Parents Network - Uganda further underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in fighting preventable blindness.
As the fight against ROP continues, Kayunga Regional Referral Hospital’s screening camp serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved through dedicated advocacy, education, and action. Parents, healthcare providers, and policymakers are urged to support and expand such initiatives, ensuring every preterm baby in Uganda has the opportunity for a brighter, healthier future.