Folic Acid and Human Reproduction-ten Important Issues for Clinicians

Overview

Journal J Exp Clin Assist Reprod

Specialty Medical Ethics

Date 2011 Oct 13

PMID 21991291

Citations 6

Authors

Beth Dunlap

Kantha Shelke

Shala A Salem

Louis G Keith

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

This article presents data on the current best evidence-based clinical practices and controversies surrounding folic acid supplementation/fortification for the prevention of neural tube defects (NTDs) during early pregnancy. Formatted as a series of ten clinical questions, answers and extensive discussion are provided for each point. We assess the history and evidence behind supplementation and fortification, racial/ethnic disparities in NTDs on a global scale, and present information on risk factors for NTDs other than dietary folic acid deficiency. Also discussed are public health challenges, including disparities in NTD rates, population-wide monitoring of NTDs, and tracking safety data in the post-fortification era. Emerging data are also reviewed regarding the role folic acid may play in malignant processes, cardiovascular disease, male fertility, and other medical conditions.

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