Overcoming folate deficiency - a way to prevent neural tube defects (literature review)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15574/SP.2025.4(148).108115Keywords:
neural tube defects, spina bifida, folic acid, folate, food fortificationAbstract
Ensuring a normal pregravid level of folic acid (FA) is a key to both the reproductive health of women and the health of the unborn child. The impact of folate deficiency on the development of neural tube defects is associated with impaired nucleotide biosynthesis and cell division, increased homocysteine levels, changes in cell methylation potential and gene expression.
Aim - generalizing and clarifying the impact of the effectiveness of fortification of FC products in preventing childhood diseases and identifying priority areas for future interventions.
Randomised controlled trials and observational studies have shown that adequate daily FA supplementation before and during early pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects by up to 30%. This risk can be increased to 80% by fortifying the foods with FAs that women will take before pregnancy, as the main cause of folate deficiency is insufficient dietary intake.
Voluntary fortification does not reduce the incidence of neural tube defects, in contrast to the effectiveness of mandatory fortification. No risks of adverse effects have been identified from existing mandatory fortification programmes that have been implemented in many countries. Current FА fortification programmes contribute to the maintenance of public health in populations.
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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