Prevention of Neural Tube Defects (p.129-131) and answer the questions

1) What are neural tube defects (NTDs)? Describe the prevalence and etiology of NTDs. Who is at higher risk of having a child with a NTD?

2) Describe the association between folate levels and prevention of NTDs in the developing fetus.

3) Review the Case 1 patient’s 24 hour dietary recall (p.130-131). What dietary modifications might you suggest to improve her folate intake?

4) Describe the structural difference between folate (naturally occurring in foods) versus folic acid (found in supplements and fortified foods). Are both forms equally bioavailable? Why or why not?

5) What are the current guidelines on folic acid for the prevention of NTDs? Specifically, please describe the guidelines for both (A) all women planning pregnancy and (B) women who have had a previous NTD-affected pregnancy.