DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjams.2025.v13i07.019

Pages: 1464-1468

Background: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a leading cause of childhood blindness, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Oxygen therapy and septicemia are two of the most significant modifiable risk factors for ROP. Nutritional supplementation may reduce the incidence of these risk factors by supporting immune function and enhancing neonatal physiological stability. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of nutritional supplementation on oxygen and sepsis-related risk factors associated with ROP in preterm neonates. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted from July 2018 to June 2020 at the Neonatology Department of Dhaka Shishu Hospital. A total of 150 preterm neonates (gestational age 32–34 completed weeks with peripheral avascular retinal zones on initial screening) were enrolled and randomized into two groups: supplementation (n=75) and control (n=75). Clinical parameters, including oxygen therapy, septicemia, respiratory distress, blood transfusion, and ROP status, were recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0, and a p-value ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Oxygen therapy was required in 50.7% of the supplemented group compared to 76.0% in the control group (p=0.001). Septicemia occurred in 40.0% of supplemented neonates versus 58.7% of controls (p=0.022). ROP incidence was significantly lower in the supplemented group across subgroups with oxygen therapy, septicemia, and sex. Conclusion: Nutritional supplementation significantly reduces the need for oxygen therapy and the risk of developing septicemia in preterm neonates, thereby lowering the risk of ROP. Incorporating nutritional strategies into neonatal care protocols may be a valuable preventive approach.