The objective of this study was to determine the incidence, risk factors and severity of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and to establish screening criteria for our region. Data on 330 infants with gestational age at birth < or = 34 weeks were analyzed retrospectively for a ROP diagnosis and risk factors. Infants with type 1 ROP were treated with argon laser photocoagulation. ROP was detected in 106 of 330 infants; 18 infants had type 1 ROP and were treated. Two infants with ROP that progressed to stage 4 disease required surgery. No treatment was needed in infants born after 32 weeks of gestation. Respiratory distress syndrome and low gestational age were the most important risk factors for type 1 ROP. In the West Black Sea region of Turkey, screening all premature infants with a gestational age < or = 32 weeks or a birth weight < or = 1900 g appears to be appropriate.