Preconception Folic Acid Research Articles

Folic acid supplementation during preconception period in sub-Saharan African countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are serious congenital anomalies of the central nervous system caused by disruptions in early embryonic development. The prevalence is about twice as common in low- and middle-income countries and more prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa. Folic acid deficiency is a major risk factor and common during pregnancy. However, limited research on preconception folic acid supplementation in this region highlights the need for systematic reviews and targeted interventions to improve maternal and fetal health. We conducted a systematic literature search in EMBASE, MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL, Google Scholar, and Google for studies on the proportion of folic acid supplementation during the preconception period, covering publications up to January 2024. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Heterogeneity was evaluated with Cochrane Q and I2 statistics, and small study effects were tested with Egger's test at a 5% significance level. The certainty of evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach. A random-effects model was used to estimate the pooled proportion of FA supplementation during the preconception period in sub-Saharan African countries. This systematic review included 28 studies with a total of 12,562 participants. The highest (45.2%) and lowest (1.9%) proportion of folic acid supplementation during preconception period were recorded in the southern and Amhara regions of Ethiopia, respectively. The estimated pooled proportion of folic acid supplementation among women in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) during preconception period was (14.10%; 95% CI: 11.22-16.98) with significant heterogeneity between studies (I2 = 97.71%, p = 0.001). In sub-group analysis based on corresponding countries the highest estimated folic acid supplementation proportion during preconception period was found in studies conducted in Kenya ((22%; 95% CI: 19%-25%), I2 = 97.7%), followed by studies conducted in Ghana (20%; 95% CI: 7%-33%), I2 = 96.9%). The majority of the studies included in the analysis are of high quality, with quality scores ranging from 7 to 8. The certainty of evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach, resulting in a low overall rating. The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that folic acid supplementation during preconception period is significantly low among mothers in sub-Saharan African countries, despite being one of the best approaches to improve birth outcomes. Therefore, healthcare organizations, governments, policymakers, and other stakeholders involved in folic acid supplementation must collaborate on developing strategies to improve its uptake during the preconception period.

Preconceptional and Periconceptional Folic Acid Supplementation in the Visegrad Group Countries for the Prevention of Neural Tube Defects.

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are malformations of the central nervous system that represent the second most common cause of congenital morbidity and mortality, following cardiovascular abnormalities. Maternal nutrition, particularly folic acid, a B vitamin, is crucial in the etiology of NTDs. FA plays a key role in DNA methylation, synthesis, and repair, acting as a cofactor in one-carbon transfer reactions essential for neural tube development. Randomized trials have shown that FA supplementation during preconceptional and periconceptional periods reduces the incidence of NTDs by nearly 80%. Consequently, it is recommended that all women of reproductive age take 400 µg of FA daily. Many countries have introduced FA fortification of staple foods to prevent NTDs, addressing the high rate of unplanned pregnancies. These policies have increased FA intake and decreased NTD incidence. Although the precise mechanisms by which FA protects against NTDs remain unclear, compelling evidence supports its efficacy in preventing most NTDs, leading to national recommendations for FA supplementation in women. This review focuses on preconceptional and periconceptional FA supplementation in the female population of the Visegrad Group countries (Slovakia, Czech Republic, Poland, and Hungary). Our findings emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to NTDs, including FA supplementation programs, tailored counseling, and effective national-level policies.

Predictors of receiving care and folic acid supplementation prior to pregnancy: a large cross-sectional study in Shiraz, Iran

Background and aimPreconceptional care aims to improve health and is influenced by various factors including health literacy. Considering the importance and necessity of high quality preconceptional care, this study aimed to determine the predictors of receiving care and folic acid supplementation prior to pregnancy.MethodsThis cross-sectional study included 693 participants with pregnancies of less than 14 weeks gestation referred to health centers and gynecologists in Shiraz city, Iran. Multi-stage sampling occurred from May 2021 to February 2022 in 18 comprehensive urban health centers and 20 gynecology offices via the proportional allocation method. Data was collected using a questionnaire consisting of 3 parts: 1) individual and fertility characteristics, 2) information related to the components of preconceptional care and 3) health literacy. This was completed by individual participants who self-reported their responses.ResultsExamining the frequency of the variables related to individual characteristics revealed that the mean age of participants in the study was 30.32 with a standard deviation of 5.29 years and more than half (59.3%) had a university level education. The receipt of pre-conceptual care was found to have a statistically significant relationship with the following: level of education, employment status, length of marriage, number of pregnancies, week of pregnancy and whether it was planned or not, along with health literacy (P < 0.05). Folic acid supplementation was found to have a statistically significant relationship with the following: level of education, financial status of the family, length of marriage, number of pregnancies and current pregnancy status (P < 0.05). In examining the predictive effect of individual variables and health literacy in the logistic regression model with the outcome of receiving preconceptional care and folic acid supplementation, length of marriage, health literacy, occupational status, and pregnancy planning status variables remained in the model following analysis.ConclusionSeveral factors had a statistically significant relationship with receiving pre-conceptual care and folic acid supplementation. In order to improve pre-conceptual care and increase folic acid supplementation, special attention must be paid to improving health literacy, increasing levels of education and reducing unplanned pregnancies.

Pregnancy planning in women with epilepsy: A single center observational study with focus on epilepsy type

PurposeTo explore various aspects of pregnancy planning in women with epilepsy and to identify factors needing particular attention in the counselling of these patients with focus on epilepsy type. Methods285 pregnancies in 192 women were collected from the EURAP registry in Trondheim, Norway. Medical records were reviewed to validate diagnoses and types of epilepsy according to revised ILAE classifications. ResultsTen women proved to have non-epileptic conditions, leaving 274 pregnancies in 182 patients for inclusion. In 40 %, the epilepsy was focal, in 45 % generalized, including 18 % with JME. In 14 %, the epilepsy type was unknown. Pregnancies were planned in 64 %; 16 % were unintended and 20 % undetermined. Unintended pregnancies occurred in 15 % with focal and in 17 % with generalized epilepsy and in only 10 % of the JME subgroup. Planned pregnancy was associated with both preconception folic acid intake (p < 0.001) and breastfeeding ≥6 months (p = 0.011). Epilepsy of unknown type had the lowest rates of intended pregnancy and folic acid use. ConclusionWe found no difference in pregnancy planning between focal and generalized epilepsy. Intended pregnancy was strongly associated with both folic acid and breastfeeding. The JME subgroup did not perform worse but rather above average regarding family planning and breastfeeding. The lowest proportion of folic acid intake was found in epilepsy of unknown type in which seizure control is common, and patients may receive less attention from the specialist health service. Appropriate counselling regarding pregnancy should reach out to all fertile women regardless of epilepsy type and seizure control.

Preconception health inequalities in Northern Ireland: a focus on obesity and folic acid supplement use from 255,117 pregnancies

Obesity prevalence is rising globally. Living with obesity can lead to increased reproductive challenges and compromise preconception health, defined as the overall health of non-pregnant individuals of childbearing age (15-49 years)(1). Folic acid supplement use, considered a key preconception health behaviour, is pivotal for the prevention of neural tube defects in offspring(2). Guidelines suggest women with obesity take a higher dose (5mg/day) to reduce the risk of fetal complications(3). This research explored trends in Body Mass Index (BMI) in the preconception and early pregnancy period in Northern Ireland (NI) and the prevalence of folic acid supplement use across BMI categories, exploring differences based on deprivation.Anonymised national data collected in the Northern Ireland MATernity System (NIMATS) were accessed via the UK Secure eResearch Platform Data, provided by the HSC Honest Broker Service. The NI Multiple Deprivation Measure (NIMDM) (2017) aggregates the rankings of seven specific domains into a single ranking, used to categorise deprivation into quintiles for comparison (Q1 highest deprivation vs Q5 least deprivation). Healthy weight, overweight, and obesity were classified as BMI 18.5–24.99kg/m2, 25.00–29.99kg/m2 and ≥30kg/m2, respectively. Folic acid supplement use was self-reported. Multiple linear regressions explored trends in BMI between 2011 and 2021 and χ2 tests explored associations between BMI categories and folic acid supplement use from 2014-2021. The ‘Healthy Reproductive Years’ Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) advisory panel (aged 18-45 years), were involved throughout the study.The analyses included a total of 255,117 pregnancies, with missing data addressed per variable.The percentage of women entering pregnancy with a healthy BMI decreased between 2011 and 2021 (48.65%, n = 12,144, and 39.55%, n = 4,316, respectively), while the percentage of women with obesity increased over the same period (18.11%, n = 4,520, and 27.36%, n = 2,986, respectively). Regression models suggested an average increase of ∼1 unit of BMI per calendar year in women entering pregnancy (p&lt;0.001). There were higher proportions of pregnancies conceived by women with overweight or obesity in the highest deprivation quintile (Q1, 53.57%) compared to the least deprivation (Q5, 46.37%). Folic acid supplement use was mostly initiated after conception (59.03%) rather than before (37.54%), as recommended. Among women living with obesity, preconception supplement use of 5mg of folic acid was low (8.74%, n = 2,990). Lower proportions were observed for preconception supplement use of 400mcg among women in the quintile of greatest deprivation (Q1, 21.41%) versus least deprivation (Q5, 44.06%).Analyses demonstrated an increased number of women entering pregnancy with an elevated BMI and suboptimal preconception folic acid supplement use, particularly for women with obesity. It highlights significant health inequalities according to NIMDM regarding obesity and folic acid supplement use. There is a need to address modifiable preconception health risks, particularly for those from lower socioeconomic groups.

Preconception health among migrant women in England: a cross-sectional analysis of maternity services data 2018–19

BackgroundDespite poor perinatal outcomes among migrants in vulnerable situations (eg, asylum seekers), little is known about their health preconception. We investigated preconception health inequalities between migrant women in vulnerable situations and non-migrants. MethodsThis national cross-sectional study used NHS Maternity Services Dataset version 1.5, incorporating English NHS maternity services. Those with antenatal booking appointments between 1/4/2018-31/3/2019 were included (n=652 880). Odds ratios (OR), calculated using logistic regression, compared indicators of preconception health (selected via systematic review) among probable migrants in vulnerable situations (PMVS: first language other than English [FLOTE] with complex social factors [CSF]) to the reference category ‘probable non-migrants not in vulnerable situations’ (English their first language without CSF). CSF include recent migrants, asylum seekers, refugees, difficulty reading/speaking English; alcohol and/or drugs misuse; aged under 20 years; and/or experiencing domestic abuse. University of Warwick ethics committee approved the study. FindingsPMVS represented 3·8% (n=25 070) of the study population, 10·2% (n=66 783) had FLOTE without CSF, 5·6% (n=36 433) spoke English as their first language with CSF, 46·5% (n=303 737) were in the reference category, and 33·8% (n=220 858) had missing migration data (included as ‘missing’ category). PMVS had higher odds of not taking folic acid preconception (OR 2·15, 95% CI 2·06–2·25), previous obstetric complications (OR 1·26, 95% CI 1·21–1·31), hepatitis B (OR 5·40, 95% CI 4·43–6·58), diabetes (OR 1·30, 95% CI 1·17–1·45) and underweight (OR 1·55, 95% CI 1·44–1·68), but lower odds of physical/mental health conditions (OR 0·54, 95% CI 0·52–0·56), smoking (OR 0·86, 95% CI 0·82–0·90) and overweight/obesity (OR 0·73, 95% CI 0·71–0·75). InterpretationInequalities occur across preconception indicators. Lower odds of preconception folic acid have also been identified in studies elsewhere and is a serious concern for migrant maternal health. Limitations include lack of granular data on migration category and missing data. Opportunities exist for more targeted preconception care. FundingMedical Research Council (Grant number MR/W01498X/1)

Preconception Folic Acid and Multivitamin Supplementation for the Prevention of Neural Tube Defect: An Umbrella Review of Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Previous reviews explored the association between maternal use of folic acid and multivitamin supplements and risk of neural tube defect (NTD) in children, with no definitive conclusion. These reviews had produced contradictory results, and there had been no umbrella review. Therefore, the objective of this umbrella review is to combine the inconsistent data on the effect of prenatal folic acid and/or multivitamin supplementation for the prevention of NTD in offspring. Using the PRISMA guideline, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Sciences, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Scopus, and Google Scholar reported that the effects of folic acid and/or multivitamin supplementation for the prevention of NTD in offspring were searched. The quality of the included studies was assessed using Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR). A weighted inverse variance random-effects model was applied to find the pooled estimates. The subgroup analysis, heterogeneity, publication bias, and sensitivity analysis were also assessed. Ten SRM with 296,816 study participants were included. The random-effects model analysis from 10 included systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that the pooled effect of either folic acid or multivitamin supplementation for the prevention of NTD globally is found to be 0.43 (95% CI: 0.29, 0.58) (I2 = 93.50%; p ≤0.001). In the subgroup analysis, the pooled effect was found to be 0.23 (0.09, 0.37) in folic acid group, while this estimate is 0.63 (0.53, 0.72) and 0.61 (0.46, 0.75) in groups who took multivitamin. The pooled effect of prevention of NTD was found to be 0.50 (0.34, 0.66) in SRMs aimed at occurrence prevention (primary prevention) group, while this estimate is 0.20 (-0.01, 0.41) among SRMs, which aimed at reoccurrence (secondary) prevention, and 0.61 (0.46, 0.75) among those SRMs aimed to assess the effect folic acid or multivitamin for the prevention of both occurrence and reoccurrence. The pooled effect of either folic acid or multivitamin supplementation for the prevention of NTD was found to be 0.45 (0.03, 0.87) in SRMs of observational studies, while this estimate is 0.43 (0.32, 0.54) among SRMs of randomized controlled trials. This umbrella review of systematic review and meta-analysis found that prenatal folic acid and/or multivitamin supplementation was associated with a 57% reduction in NTD. Participants who took folic acid supplementation were associated with a slightly higher (77%) percentage of reduction in NTD compared with those who took multivitamin (37%). Reductions of 80% and 50% were observed for reoccurrence and occurrence prevention of NTD. Reductions of 57% and 55% of NTD have been found in SRM of RCTs and observational studies. This umbrella review revealed that both folic acid and multivitamin were associated with significantly lower levels of NTD in children. Considering the incorporation of those supplements in NTD prevention strategies during the preconception period is recommended. More large-scale prospective cohort and RCTs are needed to understand the protective effect of multivitamins and/or folic acid on NTD risk addressing the molecular mechanisms and to determine the optimal dose, duration, and timing of maternal multivitamin and folic acid intake for best child NTD risk reduction.

Clinicopathological profile and management challenges of congenital encephaloceles in a tertiary hospital in southwest Nigeria.

A congenital encephalocele is the herniation of intracranial contents through skull defects of various sizes. Depending on the site, content, and size, it is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in children. There is a paucity of recent and comprehensive local clinical data regarding this anomaly. Understanding the peculiarities, clinical-pathologic profiles, and management challenges will help prevent and effectively manage congenital encephalocele to improve outcomes. This was a retrospective study of all cases of congenital encephalocele managed between July 2000 and December 2023 at a tertiary hospital in the southwest region of Nigeria. Relevant demographic, clinicopathological, and management data were retrieved and analysed. There were 31 females and 11 males. Their ages ranged from 3hours to 24years. Sixteen (35.3%) were delivered in a non-health facility. Birth asphyxia was reported in 5 babies. Few mothers (4.8%) used preconception folic acid. Anaemia (n = 5) and sepsis (n = 4) were the common preoperative morbidities. All patients had definitive surgery, with 18 operated on within the first month of life. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak was the most common postoperative complication and was significantly observed in the sincipital group (p = 0.018). Thirty-one patients (73.8%) presented for follow-up after surgery, and the mean follow-up duration was 26.6weeks. Mortality was recorded in a patient (2.4%) due to Klebsiella meningitis. Congenital encephaloceles are relatively common in our setting. Therefore, there is a need to address the associated poor maternal and neonatal health conditions. Early surgery can be performed with a favourable outcome.

Preconception folic acid supplementation for the prevention of birth defects: a prospective, population-based cohort study in mainland China

BackgroundFolic acid supplementation is recommended for reducing the risk of birth defects. We aimed to assess the protective association of periconception folic acid supplements with birth defects in real-world setting.MethodsThis prospective, population-based cohort study utilized national preconception registered data of married Chinese couples planning a pregnancy within 6 months between 2010 and 2012 in Mainland China. Participated women are freely provided folic acid starting 3 months before conception till 3 months after conception. Birth defects were self-reported at 42 days postpartumn followup. R software (v4.0.2) was applied for statistical analyses.ResultsComplete data of 567,547 couples with pregnancy outcomes and folic acid supplementation were extracted for final analysis. A total of 74.7% women were with folic acid supplementation, and 599 birth defects were self-reported. The odd of birth defects was lower among women taking folic acid compared to their counterparts not taking (0.102% vs 0.116%, P < 0.001). In the multiple logistic regression analyses, the odd of birth defects was lower among couples with maternal folic acid supplementation (OR = 0.78, 95%CI: 0.66–0.95, P = 0.011), especially decreased odd of neural tube defects (NTDs) (OR = 0.56, 95%CI: 0.39–0.82, P = 0.003). This association was confirmed by 1:4 and 1:10 case control analysis. Odds of birth defects were significantly lower among women with folic acid supplementation more than 3 months before pregnancy (P < 0.001), and moreover, the odds of cleft (P = 0.007) and NTDs (P = 0.007) were of notable decrease.ConclusionThis retrospective case cohort study provides programmatic evidence for public health strategy-making to for reducing the risk of NTDs and clefts.

Preconception health among migrant women in England: A cross-sectional analysis of maternity services data 2018–2019

BackgroundPerinatal outcomes are poor among migrant women in vulnerable situations, but little is known about their health preconception. We investigated preconception health inequalities between migrant women in vulnerable situations and non-migrant women. MethodsThis national cross-sectional study used data from the NHS Maternity Services Data Set (MSDS) version 1.5, incorporating NHS maternity services in England. All 652,880 women with an antenatal booking appointment between 1/4/2018 and 31/3/2019 were included. Migration category data were available for 66.2 % (n = 432,022). Odds ratios were calculated comparing preconception indicators among probable migrants in vulnerable situations (English not their first language with complex social factors (CSF)), probable migrants not in vulnerable situations (English not their first language without CSF), probable non-migrants in vulnerable situations (English their first language with CSF) and probable non-migrants not in vulnerable situations (English their first language without CSF). CSF include recent migrants, asylum seekers, refugees, difficulty reading/speaking English; alcohol and/or drugs misuse; aged under 20; and/or experiencing domestic abuse. FindingsWe identified 3.8 % (25,070 women) of the study population as probable migrants in vulnerable situations, 10.2 % (66,783 women) as probable migrants not in vulnerable situations, 5.6 % (36,433 women) as probable non-migrants in vulnerable situations, 46.5 % (303,737 women) as probable non-migrants not in vulnerable situations, and 33.8 % as having missing migration category data. Probable migrants in vulnerable situations (n = 25,070) had over twice the odds of not taking folic acid preconception compared to probable non-migrants not in vulnerable situations (odds ratio 2.15, 95 % confidence interval 2.06–2.25). They had increased odds of previous obstetric complications and being underweight, but lower odds of physical and mental health conditions (apart from diabetes and hepatitis b), smoking and overweight or obesity. InterpretationInequalities exist across many preconception indicators, highlighting opportunities to improve preconception health in this population to reduce health inequalities and improve perinatal and neonatal outcomes. FundingMedical Research Council.

Associations of unintended pregnancy with autism spectrum disorders and the modification of folic acid supplements.

There is limited evidence on the associations of unintended pregnancy with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This study aimed to examine this relationship and the modification of pre-conceptional and prenatal folic acid supplements. Six thousand and five toddlers aged 16 to 30 months from seven cities of six provinces in China were eligible for participation. Information on unintended pregnancy and folic acid supplements was obtained via questionnaires from caregivers of toddlers. The diagnosis of ASD was based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) and the Chinese version of the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS). Of the 6005 toddlers in the study (3337 boys and 2668 girls), 71 (1.18%) received the diagnosis of ASD. Generalized linear models with a logit link function showed unintended pregnancy was positively associated with ASD (odds ratios [OR] = 1.69, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-2.79). Stratified estimates indicated that the association remained stable among toddlers of mothers without pre-conceptional and prenatal folic acid supplements (OR = 2.75, 95% CI, 1.04-7.27; n = 1243, 20.70%). Unintended pregnancy was associated with higher odds of ASD in 16-30 months of toddlers, and the association was consistent among toddlers of mothers without prenatal folic acid supplements. Our findings emphasize the need to raise awareness of the risk of unintended pregnancy and the benefits of folic acid supplements among Chinese women.

Determinants of neural tube defects among women who gave birth in hospitals in Eastern Ethiopia: evidence from a matched case control study

IntroductionNeural tube defects (NTDs) are severe birth defects caused by nutritional, genetic or environmental factors. Because NTDs continue to have a significant health and economic impact on children and community at large, it is crucial to investigate potential risk factors in order to develop novel approaches to NTDs prevention. Determinants for the development of NTDs differ by country, region as well as within the country. The objective of this study was to identify the determinants of NTDs among newborns delivered in three hospitals found in eastern Ethiopia.MethodsA hospital-based matched case-control study was conducted among 138 cases and 138 control women who delivered in three teaching hospitals in Eastern Ethiopia in 2021. Data were collected using a structured and pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire. Cases were mothers who delivered a neonate with any type of NTDs regardless of gestational age or fetal viability, whereas controls were mothers who delivered an apparently healthy newborn. Chi-square was used to assess the significant difference between the two groups. Conditional logistic regression model was used to generate adjusted odds ratio with its corresponding 95% confidence intervals and compare the two groups.ResultsAnencephaly (51.4%) and spinal bifida (34.1%) were the most frequently observed NTDs. None of study participants took preconception folic acid supplementation. Being a non-formal mothers (AOR = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.12–0.92, P = 0.034), rural residence, (AOR = 3.4, 95% CI: 1.18–9.78, P = 0.023), history of spontaneous abortion (AOR = 2.95, 95% CI: 1.15–7.55, P = 0.023), having severe anemia (AOR = 3.4, 95% CI: 1.17–9.87, P = 0.024), history of fever or cold (AOR = 2.75; 95% CI: 1.05–7.15, P = 0.038), and an exposure to various agro-chemicals (AOR = 3.39, 95% CI: 1.11–10.3, P = 0.032) were independent determinants of NTDs.Conclusion and RecommendationIn this study, NTDs were associated to several determinant factors in the area, including residential area, history of spontaneous abortion, severe anemia, fever/cold, antibiotic use before or during early pregnancy, and exposure to agrochemicals. Addressing the identified determinants is critical in averting the incidence of NTDs in the study area. Moreover, more research is needed to investigate women’s dietary practices as well as the practice of preconception folic acid supplementation for pregnant women in Ethiopia’s current health care system.

The association of preconceptional folic acid supplementation with gestational age and preterm birth risk in twin pregnancies: a prospective cohort study in China.

This study aims to explore the association of maternal preconceptional folic acid (FA) supplementation with gestational age and preterm birth in twin pregnancies, and whether the association varies by chorionicity or conception mode. From November 2018 to December 2021, the information of FA supplementation and pregnancy outcomes were collected in twin pregnant women. The linear regression models and the logistic regression were used to test the association of preconceptional FA supplementation with gestational age at delivery and preterm birth and premature rupture of membranes (PROM). A total of 416 twin pregnancies were included. Compared with no use in twins, maternal preconceptional FA use was associated with a 0.385-week longer gestational age (95% CI 0.019-0.751) and lower risk of preterm birth < 36weeks (adjusted OR 0.519; 95% CI 0.301-0.895) and PROM (adjusted OR 0.426; 95% CI 0.215-0.845). The protective effect on preterm birth < 36weeks and PROM is similar whether taking FA supplements alone or multivitamins. However, the associations varied by chorionicity and conception mode of twins or compliance with supplementation. The positive associations between preconceptional FA use and gestational age only remained significant among twins via assisted reproductive technology or dichorionic diamniotic twins. Significant protective effects on preterm birth < 36weeks and PROM were only found among women who took FA at least 4 times a week before conception. Maternal preconceptional FA supplementation was associated with longer gestation duration and lower risk of preterm birth < 36weeks and PROM in twin pregnancies. To improve the success of their pregnancies, reproductive women should start taking FA supplements well before conception and with good compliance.

Study of pre-conception care (PCC) amongst women in the first trimester coming to the obstetrics and gynaecology (OBGY) outpatient department (OPD) of a hospital in a rural area.

Pre-conception care (PCC) is a set of interventions that aim to identify and modify biomedical, behavioural and social risks to women's health and pregnancy outcomes. It was an observational descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in the obstetrics and gynaecology (OBGY) outpatient department (OPD) of a tertiary care teaching institute in a rural set-up. Two hundred women in the first trimester of pregnancy were interviewed using a pre-designed and pretested questionnaire following informed verbal consent. The study was conducted between May and September 2019. The study excluded women in the 2nd or 3rd trimester of pregnancy, inpatient department (IPD) patients and those unwilling to participate. The study revealed that 25.5% of the women had conceived between 14 and 19 years of age. Fifty-four percent of the pregnancies were unplanned. Merely 14.5% had consulted and 15% had their laboratory investigations performed before pregnancy. Only 11% had received pre-conception folic acid supplementation. Pregnancies with birth spacing <2 years accounted for 15%. The proportion of women with known risk factors was 38% being underweight, 9.5% being overweight, 8% being of short stature (height ≤145 cm), 63% having anaemia (haemoglobin <12 g/dL), 10% with a previous history of abortion, 3.5% with systemic diseases, 4.5% with poor oral hygiene, 1% with domestic violence, 3% with medication, 3% with tobacco addiction and 4.5% with radiation/environmental toxin exposure. One percent had the hepatitis B vaccine and 0.5% had the influenza vaccine. From our study, we conclude that the PCC services are meagre, and unhealthy women who conceive without adequate PCC are prone to maternal and foetal health complications.

Frequency of fetal anomalies on antenatal scans in pediatric surgery department of mayo hospital.

Objective: To know the prevalence of congenital anomalies in foeti on antenatal ultrasonography and role of preconceptual folic acid intake in preventing development of neural tube defects. Study Design: Cross-sectional Descriptive study. Setting: Department of Pediatric Surgery, Mayo Hospital, Lahore. Period: January 2022 to September 2022. Material &amp; Methods: The data of 57 patients was collected, who were referred to Pediatric Surgery Department of Mayo Hospital, Lahore from lady Wallington Hospital and Lady Aitchison Hospital, with fetal anomaly detected on antenatal scan. Women with pregnancy in second and third trimester, ranging in age from 20 to 45 years, were enrolled in the study. A questionnaire was used to collect the data. We analyzed the data of study usingSPSS 20(Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20). Results: Data analysis showed higher incidence (34%) of anomalies of central nervous system including neural tube defects. 89% (51/57) women had not taken preconceptual folic acid supplements. Consanguinity was also noted to be an important factor and significant correlation was seen 70% (40/57). Conclusion: The incidence of central nervous system anomalies including neural tube defects was higher (34%) among all anomalies. This might be probably due to preconceptual deficiency of folic acid.

Nutritional deficiency and MTHFR gene polymorphism in obstetrics

: This study was carried out to determine the association of folic acid deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, hyperhomocysteinemia and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene polymorphism with obstetrical events linked to folic acid deficiency like neural tube defects (NTD); unexplained abruption placentae (AP), recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) and preterm labour(PTL).: In the present study 87 pregnant females with past or present history of either neural tube defect (NTD), abruptio placentae, recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) or preterm labour and 100 pregnant females without any such history were enrolled. Serum levels of folic acid, vitamin B12 and homocysteine in these females were estimated using chemiluminescence and Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) was used to detect MTHFR gene polymorphism.: No significant association was observed between serum folic acid levels and NTD (p = 0.495), RPL (p = 0.832) or preterm labour (p = 0.724). However, folic acid deficiency had significant association with the occurrence of abruptio placenta (p = 0.001). Serum vit B12 deficiency was found to be a significant risk factor only in patients with RPL. Increased homocysteine revealed significant association with RPL (p= 0.024), abruption placentae (p=0.002) and preterm labour (0.015). No polymorphism in MTHFR gene could be revealed in the above pregnancy complications.: In the present study, deficiency of folic acid was uncommon probably due to its routine supplementation throughout the first trimester. However, preconceptional folic acid supplementation still needs to be emphasized to build up adequate folic acid levels required during embryogenesis. The relationship between vit B12 and RPL needs studies on larger number to establish the association before supplementation is suggested. MTHFR677 gene polymorphism may have remained undetected due to small sample size.

Changes in Spina Bifida Lesion Level After Folic Acid Fortification in the US

Changes in Spina Bifida Lesion Level After Folic Acid Fortification in the US

Pre-conception folic acid intake and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder in children

Objectives: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common disorder in children. It is thought to occur due to the interaction of many genetic and environmental factors during early development. Many studies have been conducted to investigate the etiology of ADHD. Some have investigated neurobiology, and others have investigated malnutrition and trace element deficiency. To investigate the effect of folic acid intake during the pre-conception period in terms of ADHD development. Methods: Five hundred and ninety-eight participants, 246 children with ADHD, and 352 healthy controls were enrolled. A questionnaire was completed, including socio-demographic information and the use of folic acid and other supplements such as a multivitamin, iron, and omega 3 during pregnancy. Data were examined to determine associations with ADHD. Mann-Whitney U tests for continuous variables, Pearson’s chi-square, and Fisher’s exact tests for categorical variables were used to compare groups. Results: The use of folic acid during pre-pregnancy among mothers who had a child with ADHD was 13% and this was 31% in the control group (p &amp;lt; 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between the groups’ use of folic acid in pregnancy (p = 0.617). Other situations related to ADHD were advanced maternal age (p &amp;lt; 0.001 for both groups), abnormal double screening test results in pregnancy (27% vs. 5%, p &amp;lt; 0.001) and omega 3 use in pregnancy (p &amp;lt; 0.001). Conclusions: The use of folic acid before and during pregnancy is important for neurological development. However, there is little data on use before pregnancy in the literature. This study shows that folic acid taken before pregnancy may prevent ADHD in childhood. The present study recommends folic acid usage in planned pregnancy to prevent ADHD in the child.

Prevalence, Pattern, and Outcome of Congenital Anomalies Admitted to a Neonatal Unit in a Low-Income Country—a Ten-Year Retrospective Study

ObjectiveThe incidence of congenital abnormalities is highest in low-and-middle-income countries. However, the prevalence, spectrum, trends of neonatal congenital anomalies and their admission outcomes have not been well explored. This study was a 10 year retrospective hospital-based research in a low-income country to address the above.MethodsAll infants hospitalized in the Special Care Baby Unit at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital in Ghana, between 1st January 2010 and 31st December 2019, had their demographic, obstetric, and clinical data recorded.ResultsOver the decade, 236 neonates with congenital abnormalities were admitted to the unit, accounting for 2.8% of total neonatal admissions and 8.6 per 1000 births. Mortality occurred in 33.2% of neonates with congenital abnormalities, corresponding to 4.6% of all neonatal deaths. Mortality was significantly associated with place of delivery and gravidity of more than five. The commonest anomalies were in the nervous system, particularly neural tube defects, followed by suspected chromosomal abnormalities and then cardiac defects. Neonates with cardiac defects had a higher chance of dying. Health center/clinic delivery proffered a better survival than hospital delivery, but this should be interpreted with caution.ConclusionNeural tube defects were the most predominant anomalies; hence, intensification of preconception and antenatal folic acid supplementation is pivotal towards their reduction. Making prenatal screening for early detection of fetal anomalies an integral part of routine antenatal care is also essential. This research was conducted in a single center and did not include stillbirths and abortions so cannot give an accurate estimation of the number of congenital abnormalities in the population. A national registry of congenital anomalies is recommended.

Investigating continuation of folic acid supplementation during peri-conceptional period: a community-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundMaternal folate may not reach an optimal level to prevent neural tube defects if supplementation commenced post-conception or took place pre-conception only. Our study aimed to investigate the continuation of folic acid (FA) supplementation from pre-conception to post-conception during peri-conceptional period and to examine its differences in FA supplementation between the subgroups taking the initiation timing into consideration.MethodsThis study was conducted in two community health service centers in Jing-an District of Shanghai. Women accompanying their children to pediatric health clinics of the centers were recruited and asked to recall information concerning their socioeconomic and previous obstetric characteristics, utilization of healthcare and FA supplementation before and/or during pregnancy. The continuation of FA supplementation during peri-conceptional period were categorized into three subgroups: Supplementing with FA pre- and post-conception; supplementing with FA preconception only or post-conception only; no FA supplements pre-conception and post-conception. The relationship between FA continuation and couples’ characteristics were examined as setting the first subgroup as the base reference.ResultsThree hundred and ninety-six women were recruited. Over 40% of the women started FA supplementation after conception and 30.3% of them supplemented with FA from pre-conception to the first trimester of their pregnancy. Compared to this one-third of participants, women who didn’t supplemented with any FA during peri-conceptional period were more likely to have no utilization of pre-conception healthcare (OR= 2.47, 95% CI: 1.33–4.61) or antenatal care (OR= 4.05, 95% CI: 1.76–9.34), or who had a lower family socioeconomic status (OR= 4.36, 95% CI: 1.79–10.64). Women who supplemented with FA pre-conception only or post-conception only were more likely to have no utilization of pre-conception healthcare (OR= 2.94, 95% CI: 1.79–4.82), or to have no previous pregnancy complication (OR=1.80, 95% CI: 0.99–3.28).ConclusionOver two-fifth of the women started FA supplementation and only one-third of them had an optimal supplementation from pre-conception to the first trimester. Maternal utilization of healthcare before or during pregnancy together with maternal and paternal socioeconomic status may play a role in the continuation to FA supplementation pre- and post-conception.