Preventing Neural Tube Birth Defects:A Prevention Model and Resource Guide

Birth defects of any type have a major impact on the lives of affected children and their families. This guide outlines various ways you can design, develop, deliver, and evaluate a neural tube defects prevention program in your community using folic acid promotion as a model. Many of these materials have been designed to be general in nature so that they may be used for other types of birth defects prevention efforts in the future. The U.S. Public Health Service recommends that to reduce the risk of having a pregnancy affected by spina bifida or anencephaly, women capable of becoming pregnant need to consume 400 micrograms (0.4 milligram) of synthetic folic acid daily from a vitamin supplement, breakfast cereals or other fortified foods, in addition to eating a healthy diet. Most women still do not know about the benefits of folic acid, nor do they consume adequate amounts of folic acid daily to prevent spina bifida and other neural tube defects. This guide is a step-by-step approach intended to help you develop a successful birth defects prevention campaign.