A nonprofit organization wants to support the 2020 nutrition objective for the nation that is related to reducing the incidence of spina bifida and other neural tube defects. Define neural tube defects and describe the time frame for their development after conception. Also, discuss any recommended behavioral or nutritional interventions important for women considering pregnancy.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are a group of birth defects that are caused by incomplete development of the brain, spinal cord, or their protective coverings. Spina bifida is one of the most common types of NTDs. NTDs develop between the third and fourth week after conception—or before many women even know they are pregnant, and well before prenatal care generally begins. Folate is an essential nutrient required for DNA replication and as a component of enzymatic reactions involved in amino acid synthesis and vitamin metabolism. Knowledge of the folate–neural tube defect relationship, and awareness that folate intake was inadequate in many women of childbearing age, prompted public health efforts to increase folate intake. In particular, efforts are focused on encouraging women to consume folic acid, a highly absorbable, synthetic form of this B vitamin. In 1998, the Food and Drug Administration mandated that refined grain products such as white bread, grits, crackers, rice, and pasta be fortified with folic acid. Many countries now fortify refined grain products with folic acid, and rates of NTDs have decreased significantly in these countries.