THIS PROJECT SAVES HUNDREDS OF NEWBORNS FROM DISABILITY EVERY YEAR

According to ophthalmologists, retinopathy of prematurity is diagnosed in 49% of prematurely born babies in Kazakhstan.

Retinopathy is a vision disorder associated with abnormal development of blood vessels in the retina of a premature baby.

Thousands of newborns are at risk every year. The earlier a child is born, the higher the risk of severe retinopathy leading to disability.

There are no external signs of retinopathy of prematurity. Only a specialized and trained ophthalmologist with the use of special diagnostic equipment — a retinal camera and a head-mounted ophthalmoscope, can see early manifestations of retinopathy and refer the patient for laser photocoagulation of the retina.

An ophthalmologist performs diagnostics of retinopathy in premature babies at 3-4 weeks of life. In case of fulminant forms, laser coagulation of the retina must be carried out within 24-72 hours. Lost time can lead to complete loss of vision, that is, disability.

Within the framework of “I Can See the World” Project, AYALA Charitable Foundation raises funds to equip Perinatal and Research Centers, as well as policlinic regional hospitals in Kazakhstan with:

• retinal cameras;
• head-mounted ophthalmoscopes;
• ophthalmic lasers;
• Lucentis medicinal product.

The project is implemented in accordance with the Memorandum of Cooperation signed by AYALA Charity Foundation with the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan in May 2022.