Controlling Visual Loss From Retinopathy of Prematurity in India.

The recognition that neonatal death contributes considerably to infant mortality – and hence under five mortality rates – has led many countries to expand services for sick and preterm newborn infants. Indeed, the recent expansion of Special Newborn Care Units in India is having a major impact on the survival of sick and preterm neonates, driving down neonatal and infant mortality rates across the country [1]. However, as preterm infants are at greater risk of life-long impairments and disability than their full term counterparts, there is a growing realization that all babies should thrive as well as survive. This is being addressed by the Survive & Thrive Global Development Alliance which brings together governments, professional health associations, the private sector and non-profit partners to support governments and health professionals to improve health outcomes for mothers, newborns and children through clinical training, systems strengthening, and advocacy for policy change [2].