FOLIC-ACID FOR PREVENTION OF NEURAL-TUBE DEFECTS

Neural tube defects (spina bifida) imply a severe limitation of qualit y of life. 70 to 100% of these defects are preventable by additional i ntake of folic acid during the periconceptional period. In accordance with the recommendations of Anglo-Saxon and other authorities preventi on of this grave malformation should be attempted not only after a fir st-affected child, but primarily in a general manner in Switzerland, t oo. All women of childbearing age not under contraceptives should be a dvised to consume a diet rich in folic acid and to take an additional daily dose of 0.4 mg folic acid as a monosubstance or with a multivita min preparation. A supplement of folic acid to cereal grain products, mainly bread flours, is recommended. A generally elevated folic acid i ntake may have further beneficial effects, such as risk reduction for the occurrence of carcinoma and atherosclerosis.