New treatment for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)

New treatment for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)

Vision-saving drug to be routinely offered on NHS to prevent blindness in premature babies

The Minister announced that some premature babies will now be offered ranibizumab to reduce the risk of sight loss due to ROP.

NHS England Chief Executive Amanda Pritchard said: “The impacts of vision loss can be absolutely devastating, particularly for children and young people” and added it was “fantastic that this treatment will now give families across the country another life-changing option” to help save sight.

Health Minister Neil O’Brien said: “No baby should have to suffer avoidable sight loss.”