The majority of women are still not taking folic acid prior to and during pregnancy, and of those that do only 5.5% take it at the correct dose and time for it to be effective.
Sadly, there is a widespread misconception that folic acid is something optional that can be taken during pregnancy because it is ‘good for the baby’, rather than something that is essential to help prevent very serious consequences.
Spina bifida is the most severe congenital abnormality compatible with life, yet it still affects 1 in 1000 pregnancies in the UK (900 per year).
Not usually detected until a 20 week scan, approximately 80% of these pregnancies result in traumatic, late terminations at 20 weeks +.
Yet, we have known since 1991 that up to 72% of cases of Neural Tube Defects (NTDs), like spina bifida and anencephaly, could be prevented with a simple and cheap vitamin supplement, folic acid (vitamin B9).
Commenting,Shine CEO, Jackie Bland said:
“We need to be proactive not reactive if we are to bring about the reduction in the number of pregnancies affected by Neural Tube Defects that we know is possible.”
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via Shine http://shineukcharity.wordpress.com/2013/02/25/misconception-must-change-if-women-are-2-take-the-department-of-healths-recommendations-seriously/
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