[Spina bifida: prevention policy can be more effective]

Abstract

The prevalence of the severe disease spina bifida is decreasing, but the present rate is still unacceptably high. Only one-third of women planning motherhood use the recommended folic acid, although compliance is increasing. Campaigns for the use of folic acid by these women should be intensified. This method, however, cannot completely prevent the occurrence of spina bifida. A further reduction is possible by using ultrasound screening in the second trimester of pregnancy. Therefore this option of secondary prevention should be studied as soon as possible.