Spina bifida, a serious birth defect affecting the brain and spinal cord, is a concern for many families in the Philippines. While some birth defects are unavoidable, there's growing evidence that folic acid fortification in staple foods could significantly reduce spina bifida rates.
The Power of Folic Acid
Folic acid, a synthetic form of folate (naturally occurring B vitamin), plays a crucial role in early fetal development, particularly in the closure of the neural tube. Studies show sufficient folic acid intake before and during pregnancy can drastically decrease the risk of spina bifida by up to 70%.
The Philippine Context
The Philippines currently mandates wheat flour fortification, but folic acid isn't included. This is a missed opportunity, considering the prevalence of staple foods like rice in the Filipino diet. Fortifying rice with folic acid could ensure a wider population, especially those with limited access to diverse food sources, gets the recommended daily intake.
Benefits of Folic Acid Fortification
Universal Impact: Fortification reaches a broader population compared to individual supplementation, ensuring folic acid reaches even those who might not be taking prenatal vitamins.
Cost-Effective: Fortifying staple foods is a relatively inexpensive public health intervention with significant long-term benefits.
Reduced Healthcare Burden: Preventing spina bifida translates to fewer children requiring lifelong medical care, easing the strain on healthcare resources.
Moving Forward
Public health experts and organizations in the Philippines have advocated for mandatory folic acid fortification of staple foods like rice. Implementing this policy would require collaboration between government agencies, food manufacturers, and healthcare professionals.
What You Can Do
Educate Yourself and Others: Raise awareness about the benefits of folic acid and the importance of folic acid fortification in preventing spina bifida. Check out this video.
Support Advocacy Efforts: Advocate for policies that promote folic acid fortification in the Philippines. To join the movement, click here.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Consume folic acid-rich foods like leafy green vegetables, lentils, and fortified cereals, even before pregnancy.
By working together, we can make folic acid fortification a reality in the Philippines, safeguarding the health of future generations and reducing the incidence of spina bifida.
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