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There are multiple medical complications associated with spina bifida, especially the most severe form (spina bifida cystica - myelomeningocele, in which a part or parts of the spinal cord protrude through the skin of the back).
With the second most common neural tube defect, anencephaly, death ensues rapidly (because the newborn cannot live for long without a brain in the skull). About three quarters of anencephalic babies do survive for a few days or even weeks (since primitive reflexes for suckling and elimination are controlled by the remaining brainstem and spinal cord).
What else can I help you with?
The risk for neural tube defects is lowered by taking supplements what type of supplement?
FOlIC ACID
Research has shown that the risk for neural tube defects decreases by including what in your diet?
Folic acid.
What is the pathophysiology of folic acid anemia?
Folic acid anemia is a known risk factor for neural tube birth defects.
Folate deficiency during pregnancy is associated with what?
Neural tube defects.
What percentage of neural tube defects is related to the mother's intake of folate before and during pregnancy?
Before the mid-1990s, about three quarters of neural tube defects could be traced to low folate levels in the mother. Since foods (mostly cereals) and prenatal vitamins now contain folate, there has been a 75% decrease in the rate of neural tube defects in the U.S. So, nowadays, the percentage of neural tube defects related to the mother's lack of folate intake is quite small, although the exact percentage has not been studied.
What are the potential consequences of a deficiency in nutrients that can lead to neural tube defects?
A deficiency in nutrients, such as folic acid, can lead to neural tube defects in babies. These defects can cause serious health issues like spina bifida or anencephaly, which can affect the brain and spinal cord development. It is important for pregnant women to ensure they are getting enough nutrients to prevent these birth defects.
Alpha-fetoprotein in Spina Bifida?
Alpha fetoprotein is elevated when there are neural tube defects such as spina bifida.
Does taking folic acid reduce the risk of neural tube defects?
Yes. Vitamin B9 (Folate) deficiency can lead to neural tube defect (NTD) and the main source of it is green vegetables. That's why any woman who plans on getting pregnant should consume sufficient amounts of B9 (folic acid).
When does spina bifida occur in pregnancy?
Spina bifida occurs during the first trimester. Spina bifida is in a class of birth defects known as neural tube defects. The neural tube eventually develops into the spinal cord, brain and the tissues that enclose them. In a normal pregnancy the tube forms early and closes by the twenty eighth day. With spina bifida portions of the neural tube fail to develop properly causing defects of varying severity in the spinal cord and back bones. This is a complicated topic and you can read more about it at the related link.
What happens if you do not get enough of folic acid?
A lack of folic acid can lead to anemia, as it is necessary for red blood cell production. Pregnant women who do not get enough folic acid are at risk for neural tube defects in their babies. Folic acid deficiency can also cause symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and difficulty concentrating.
What are most flours and grain products in the US fortified with to help prevent neural tube defects?
Folic acid.
What is encephaloceles?
Encephaloceles refers to defects in the development of a fetal structure called the neural tube. The tube fails to close completely during development of the fetus.
