In Kyrgyzstan, additional measures are being taken to improve the effectiveness of early detection and treatment of retinopathy in premature infants—a condition that can lead to irreversible blindness if treatment is not initiated in time.
This information was shared by Alina Sagynbekova, an ophthalmologist from the National Center for Maternal and Child Health. She explained that this pathology is caused by the immaturity of the vascular system and the structures of the eyes, and it develops not immediately after birth but as the child grows. Therefore, regular examinations are extremely important.
Retinopathy can be diagnosed within the first three weeks of life. All children born before 35 weeks of gestation should undergo an examination by an ophthalmologist. In Bishkek, such examinations are conducted at the NCMMH, while in the regions, they are performed at central regional hospitals, where trained specialists carry out screenings for this pathology.
Experts emphasize that parents are not able to independently determine the presence of the disease in its early stages, so it is important to consult doctors in the first weeks of the baby's life.
Retinopathy is divided into several stages. The first two stages require dynamic monitoring, as in some cases, changes may resolve on their own as the child grows. However, if the disease progresses, specialized treatment may be necessary.
Delayed examination or treatment can lead to complete loss of vision and disability for the child. Modern therapeutic methods demonstrate high effectiveness—according to statistics, 89-90% of children retain good vision after timely intervention, and in some cases, vision correction is possible with glasses.
Each year, the number of examined premature infants in Kyrgyzstan increases, and support for them is strengthening. Previously, the focus was solely on detecting pathology, but now a comprehensive system for monitoring and treatment is being established.
From 2024 to 2025, the volume of ophthalmological care for at-risk children significantly increased. The total number of examinations rose from 851 to 2584. At the same time, the number of initial examinations increased from 881 to 940, while the number of follow-up examinations rose from 970 to 1644, indicating ongoing dynamic monitoring of children and improved quality of care.
Starting in 2024, surgeries for the treatment of retinopathy in premature infants began to be performed at the NCMMH. The number of children receiving specialized assistance increased from 42 in 2024 to 79 in 2025.
Today, doctors use modern methods, such as laser coagulation and anti-VEGF therapy, which became possible thanks to the support of the High Technology Fund of the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic. This indicates a shift towards active treatment of retinopathy in the country.
Specialists remind that every premature infant must undergo examinations by an ophthalmologist, ENT doctor, neurologist, and pediatrician. A comprehensive approach and early monitoring allow for timely detection of deviations and preservation of the child's health.
