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Akwaa Harrison O, Ifie I, Nkwonta C, Dzandu BA, Gattor AO, Adimado EE, Odoi KK, Aziavor B, Saalia FK, Steiner-Asiedu M. Knowledge, awareness, and use of folic acid among women of childbearing age living in a peri-urban community in Ghana: a cross-sectional survey. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:241. [PMID: 38580949 PMCID: PMC10996122 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06408-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Folic acid, a water-soluble B-complex vitamin, plays a crucial role in DNA synthesis and maintenance, making it particularly significant during reproduction. Its well-known ability to reduce the risk of congenital anomalies during the periconceptional period underscores its importance. The increased requirement for folate during pregnancy and lactation is essential to support the physiological changes of the mother and ensure optimal growth and development of the foetus and offspring. This study assessed the knowledge, awareness, and use of folic acid among pregnant and lactating women of reproductive age residing in Dodowa in the Shai Osu-Doku District, Accra, Ghana. METHODS The study was a cross-sectional design that involved 388 randomly selected participants (97 pregnant and 291 lactating women). Structured questionnaires were administered to gather information on the socioeconomic demographic characteristics, knowledge, awareness, and use of folic acid of the participants. Dietary intake was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson's chi-square analysis tests and are presented as frequencies and percentages, means, standard deviations, bar graphs, and pie charts. The significance of the results was determined at a 95% confidence interval. RESULTS The mean age of the participants was 31 ± 5.0 years. Among the study participants, 46.1% demonstrated knowledge of folic acid deficiency, while approximately 68.3% had a high awareness of folic acid supplementation. Approximately 75% of the participants indicated that they had not used folic acid supplements within the week, and 15.5% reported consuming folic acid-fortified food per week. CONCLUSIONS The women exhibited high awareness but poor knowledge regarding the usage of folic acid supplementation during pregnancy and lactation. Consequently, this lack of knowledge influenced the low use of folic acid supplements and low intake of folate-rich foods among pregnant and lactating mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Obed Akwaa Harrison
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Idolo Ifie
- Department of Food Science, University of Leeds, Leeds, England
| | - Chikere Nkwonta
- Department of Food Science, University of Leeds, Leeds, England
| | - Bennett Atta Dzandu
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Albert Owusu Gattor
- Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Medicinal Chemistry II, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | | | - Kofi Kafui Odoi
- Institutional Care Division, Ghana Health Services, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Firibu Kwesi Saalia
- Department of Food Process Engineering, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
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Ledet Iii LF, Plaisance CJ, Daniel CP, Wagner MJ, Alvarez I, Burroughs CR, Rieger R, Siddaiah H, Ahmadzadeh S, Shekoohi S, Kaye AD, Varrassi G. Spina Bifida Prevention: A Narrative Review of Folic Acid Supplements for Childbearing Age Women. Cureus 2024; 16:e53008. [PMID: 38406082 PMCID: PMC10894015 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are malformations that occur during embryonic development, and they account for most central nervous system birth anomalies. Genetic and environmental factors have been shown to play a role in the etiology of NTDs. The different types of NTDs are classified according to anatomic location and severity of the defect, with most of the neural axis anomalies occurring in the caudal spinal or cranial areas. Spina bifida is a type of NTD that is characterized by an opening in the vertebral arch, and the level of severity is determined by the extent to which the neural tissue protrudes through the opened arch(es). Prevention of NTDs by administration of folic acid has been studied and described in the literature, yet there are approximately 300,000 cases of NTDs that occur annually, with 88,000 deaths occurring per year worldwide. A daily intake of at least 400 μg of folic acid is recommended especially for women of childbearing age. To provide the benefits of folic acid, prenatal vitamins are recommended in pregnancy, and many countries have been fortifying foods such as cereal grain products with folic acid; however, not all countries have instituted folic acid fortification programs. The present investigation includes a description of the pharmacology of folic acid, neural tube formation, defects such as spina bifida, and the relevance of folic acid to developing spina bifida. Women's knowledge and awareness of folic acid regarding its importance in the prevention of spina bifida is a major factor in reducing incidence worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lloyd F Ledet Iii
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | - Connor J Plaisance
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | - Charles P Daniel
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | - Maxwell J Wagner
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | - Ivan Alvarez
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | - Caroline R Burroughs
- School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | - Ross Rieger
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | - Harish Siddaiah
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | - Shahab Ahmadzadeh
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | - Sahar Shekoohi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | - Alan D Kaye
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
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Chen Q, Liu XL, Lin LZ, Wang X, Li MH, Dai MX, Cao MQ, Li XH, Jin J, Xu HQ, Cai L. Associations of unintended pregnancy with autism spectrum disorders and the modification of folic acid supplements. Autism Res 2024; 17:172-181. [PMID: 38131613 DOI: 10.1002/aur.3070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
There is limited evidence on the associations of unintended pregnancy with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This study aimed to examine this relationship and the modification of pre-conceptional and prenatal folic acid supplements. Six thousand and five toddlers aged 16 to 30 months from seven cities of six provinces in China were eligible for participation. Information on unintended pregnancy and folic acid supplements was obtained via questionnaires from caregivers of toddlers. The diagnosis of ASD was based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) and the Chinese version of the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS). Of the 6005 toddlers in the study (3337 boys and 2668 girls), 71 (1.18%) received the diagnosis of ASD. Generalized linear models with a logit link function showed unintended pregnancy was positively associated with ASD (odds ratios [OR] = 1.69, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-2.79). Stratified estimates indicated that the association remained stable among toddlers of mothers without pre-conceptional and prenatal folic acid supplements (OR = 2.75, 95% CI, 1.04-7.27; n = 1243, 20.70%). Unintended pregnancy was associated with higher odds of ASD in 16-30 months of toddlers, and the association was consistent among toddlers of mothers without prenatal folic acid supplements. Our findings emphasize the need to raise awareness of the risk of unintended pregnancy and the benefits of folic acid supplements among Chinese women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Chen
- Department of Neonatology, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Neonatal Intestinal Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing-Lian Liu
- Department of Child Health Care, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Zi Lin
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming-Hui Li
- Department of Child Health Care, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Mei-Xia Dai
- Department of Children's Healthcare and Mental Health Center, Shenzhen Children's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Mu-Qing Cao
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiu-Hong Li
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Jin
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Hai-Qing Xu
- Department of Child Health Care, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Cai
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
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Hassan AA, Hassan AM, Bashir AO, Adam GK, AlHabardi N, Adam I. Periconceptional folic acid usage and its associated factors in eastern Sudan: A cross-sectional study. WOMEN'S HEALTH (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 20:17455057231224176. [PMID: 38279794 PMCID: PMC10822062 DOI: 10.1177/17455057231224176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several countries poorly adhere to the World Health Organization's recommendation of folic acid supplementation in the periconceptional period, especially in limited-resource settings. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of and the factors associated with folic acid usage in the periconceptional period among pregnant women at Gadarif Maternity Hospital in eastern Sudan. STUDY DESIGN This is a cross-sectional study. METHODS This study was conducted in eastern Sudan from April to September 2022. A total of 720 pregnant women in their first trimester were enrolled. The sociodemographic characteristics and clinical and obstetrical data of pregnant women in their first trimester were assessed using a face-to-face questionnaire. In addition, multivariate regression analysis was performed. RESULTS In this study, the median (interquartile range) of the age and gravidity of the enrolled women was 26.3 (24.14-29.52) years and 2 (1-4), respectively. Of these 720 women, 423 (58.8%) used folic acid during the periconceptional period, while 27 (3.7%) women used folic acid in the preconceptional period. None of the investigated factors (age, residence, education, employment, body mass index, or gravidity) were associated with periconceptional use of folic acid. CONCLUSION The study revealed a low prevalence of folic acid usage in preconceptional period among pregnant women in eastern Sudan. Additional efforts are needed to promote folic acid usage in the preconceptional period as well as in the first trimester.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Albagir M Hassan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Mekkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal O Bashir
- Faculty of Public Health and Health Informatics, Umm Al-Qura University, Mekkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gamal K Adam
- Faculty of Medicine, Gadarif University, Gadarif, Sudan
| | - Nadiah AlHabardi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Unaizah College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Unaizah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ishag Adam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Unaizah College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Unaizah, Saudi Arabia
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Wei W, Jiang W, Yang R, Cui W, Zhang L, Li Z. Analyzing the Trends and Causes of Birth Defects - Jinan City, Shandong Province, China, 2005-2022. China CDC Wkly 2023; 5:978-983. [PMID: 38023392 PMCID: PMC10652091 DOI: 10.46234/ccdcw2023.184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
What is already known about this topic? Numerous studies conducted in China have reported on the prevalence of birth defects (BDs). However, the limited surveillance periods in select studies curtail comprehensive trends and cause evaluation. Accordingly, the surveillance duration of BDs is extended, and a comprehensive analysis of their prevailing trends is conducted to provide a basis for government intervention and policy implementation. What is added by this report? There is a distinct increase in the incidence of BDs observed in Jinan. In rural areas, a pronounced upward trend was observed, and the increase was more rapid than in urban areas. BD prevalence among mothers over 35 years old and under 20 years old was substantially higher than BD prevalence rates in other maternal age brackets. Specifically, the period from 2005 to 2022 saw the prevalence of congenital heart disease surge, the fastest average annual growth rate among all birth defects. What are the implications for public health practice? It's essential to prioritize pregnant women in rural areas and those at both ends of the maternal age spectrum. Implementing comprehensive initiatives is crucial to address the high prevalence of congenital heart disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wei
- Department of General management, Jinan Maternity and Child Care Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Medical Service, Jinan Maternity and Child Care Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Rui Yang
- Department of Outpatient, Jinan Maternity and Child Care Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wenchao Cui
- Department of Neonatology, Jinan Maternity and Child Care Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Lihua Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Jinan Maternity and Child Care Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Zhongliang Li
- Department of Women Healthcare, Jinan Maternity and Child Care Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
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Chen Z, Wang Y, Lan F, Li S, Wang J. An expanded view of infertility: The challenge of the changing profiling of major birth defects in China. Biosci Trends 2023; 17:318-321. [PMID: 37468235 DOI: 10.5582/bst.2023.01160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Over the past two decades, China has experienced a significant decline in birth rates, accompanied by a decrease in fertility and changes in major congenital defects. The development of assisted reproductive technology (ART) has brought hope to individuals facing infertility. However, some issues related to reproductive health and congenital defects have arisen. The reasons for the changing profiling of birth defects and the relationship between the decline in fertility and ART need to be further investigated. Lifestyle factors such as nutritional supplementation need to be altered to protect reproductive capacity. Birth defects, such as congenital heart defects and hypospadias, may serve as a signal for understanding the decline in fertility. To improve fertility, the factors contributing to it need to be identified, vital genetic and medical technologies need to be introduced, and environmental interventions, such as nutritional changes, need to be implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongzhong Chen
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Urogenital Development Research Center, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanlin Wang
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fuying Lan
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shen Li
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Translational Medicine Laboratory, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
| | - Jianhua Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Translational Medicine Laboratory, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China
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Liu H, Ou J, Chen Y, Chen Q, Luo M, Wang T, Qin J. Association of Maternal Folate Intake and Offspring MTHFD1 and MTHFD2 Genes with Congenital Heart Disease. Nutrients 2023; 15:3502. [PMID: 37630697 PMCID: PMC10458540 DOI: 10.3390/nu15163502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Existing evidence supported that congenital heart defect (CHD) was associated with a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Based on this, this study aimed at assessing the association of maternal folic acid supplementation (FAS), genetic variations in offspring methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase (MTHFD)1 and MTHFD2 genes, and their interactions with CHD and its subtypes. A hospital-based case-control study, including 620 cases with CHD and 620 healthy children, was conducted. This study showed that the absence of FAS was significantly associated with an increased risk of total CHD and its subtypes, such as atrial septal defect (ASD). FAS during the first and second trimesters was associated with a significantly higher risk of CHD in offspring compared to FAS during the three months prior to conception. The polymorphisms of offspring MTHFD1 and MTHFD2 genes at rs2236222, rs11849530, and rs828858 were significantly associated with the risk of CHD. Additionally, a significantly positive interaction between maternal FAS and genetic variation at rs828858 was observed for the risk of CHD. These findings suggested that pregnant women should carefully consider the timing of FAS, and individuals with higher genetic risk may benefit from targeted folic acid supplementation as a preventive measure against CHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanjun Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China; (H.L.); (J.O.); (Y.C.); (Q.C.); (M.L.)
| | - Jun Ou
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China; (H.L.); (J.O.); (Y.C.); (Q.C.); (M.L.)
| | - Yige Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China; (H.L.); (J.O.); (Y.C.); (Q.C.); (M.L.)
| | - Qian Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China; (H.L.); (J.O.); (Y.C.); (Q.C.); (M.L.)
| | - Manjun Luo
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China; (H.L.); (J.O.); (Y.C.); (Q.C.); (M.L.)
| | - Tingting Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China; (H.L.); (J.O.); (Y.C.); (Q.C.); (M.L.)
| | - Jiabi Qin
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China; (H.L.); (J.O.); (Y.C.); (Q.C.); (M.L.)
- National Health Committee Key Laboratory of Birth Defect for Research and Prevention, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha 410028, China
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Zhou X, Jiang Y, Fang J, Wang H, Xie D, Kuang H, Li T, Liu Q, He J. Incidence of cleft lip and palate, and epidemiology of perinatal deaths related to cleft lip and palate in Hunan Province, China, 2016-2020. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10304. [PMID: 37365256 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37436-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological characteristics of cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) and CL/P-related perinatal deaths, provide some information for intervention programs to reduce the incidence of CL/P and provide clues for future researchers. Data were obtained from the Birth Defects Surveillance System in Hunan Province, China, 2016-2020. Incidences of CL/P [number of cases per 1000 fetuses (births and deaths at 28 weeks of gestation and beyond)] with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated by residence, gender, maternal age, year, and major types [cleft lip only (CL), cleft palate only (CP), and cleft lip with palate (CLP)]. Crude odds ratios (ORs) were calculated to examine the association of each maternal characteristic with CL/P. Pearson chi-square tests (χ2) were used to examine the association of each maternal characteristic with CL/P-related perinatal deaths. A total of 847,755 fetuses were registered, and 14,459 birth defects were identified, including 685 CL/P (accounted for 4.74% of all birth defects). CL, CP, and CLP accounted for 24.67% (169 cases), 36.79% (252 cases), and 38.54% (264 cases) of all CL/P, respectively. The incidence of CL/P was 0.81‰ (95%CI 0.75-0.87). The incidence of CL was 0.20‰ (95%CI 0.17-0.23) (169 cases), of CP was 0.30‰ (95%CI 0.26-0.33) (252 cases), and of CLP was 0.31‰ (95%CI 0.27-0.35) (264 cases). CL was more common in males than females (0.24‰ vs. 0.15‰, OR = 1.62, 95%CI 1.18-2.22). CP was more common in urban than rural (0.36‰ vs. 0.25‰, OR = 1.43, 95%CI 1.12-1.83), and less common in males than females (0.22‰ vs. 0.38‰, OR = 0.59, 95%CI 0.46-0.75). CLP was more common in males than females (0.35‰ vs. 0.26‰, OR = 1.36, 95%CI 1.06-1.74). Compared to mothers 25-29 years old, mothers < 20 years old were risk factors for CLP (OR = 3.62, 95%CI 2.07-6.33) and CL/P (OR = 1.80, 95%CI 1.13-2.86), and mothers ≥ 35 years old was a risk factor for CLP (OR = 1.43, 95%CI 1.01-2.02). CL/P-related perinatal deaths accounted for 24.96% (171/685) of all CL/P, of which 90.64% (155/171) were terminations of pregnancy. Rural residents, low income, low maternal age, and early prenatal diagnosis are risk factors for perinatal death. In conclusion, we found that CP was more common in urban areas and females, CL and CLP were more common in males, and CL/P was more common in mothers < 20 or ≥ 35 years old. In addition, most CL/P-related perinatal deaths were terminations of pregnancy. CL/P-related perinatal deaths were more common in rural areas, and the proportion of CL/P-related perinatal deaths decreased with the increase in maternal age, parity, and per-capita annual income. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain these phenomena. Our study is the first systematic research on CL/P and CL/P-related perinatal deaths based on birth defects surveillance. It is significant for intervention programs to prevent CL/P and CL/P-related perinatal deaths. As well, more epidemiological characteristics of CL/P (such as the location of CL/P) and approaches to reduce CL/P-related perinatal deaths need to be studied in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Zhou
- Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, 410000, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Yurong Jiang
- Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, 410000, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Junqun Fang
- Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, 410000, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Hua Wang
- The Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, 410000, Hunan Province, China.
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Birth Defects Research, Prevention and Treatment, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, 410000, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Donghua Xie
- Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, 410000, Hunan Province, China
| | - Haiyan Kuang
- Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, 410000, Hunan Province, China
| | - Ting Li
- Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, 410000, Hunan Province, China
| | - Qin Liu
- Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, 410000, Hunan Province, China
| | - Jian He
- Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, 410000, Hunan Province, China
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Liu Y, Guo N, Feng H, Jiang H. The prevalence of trimester-specific dietary supplements and associated factors during pregnancy: An observational study. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1135736. [PMID: 37089956 PMCID: PMC10116053 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1135736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of trimester-specific dietary supplements (DS)s use and their possible correlates during pregnancy.Method: Pregnant women were convenience sampled and recruited from a comprehensive obstetric care center in Shanghai, China. Data relating to the use of DS during pregnancy, social support and other social-demographic and obstetric data were collected. Trimester-specific DS use and factors related DS were explored.Results: Of the 2803 women participating in this study, 94.8%, 96.2%, 93.8%, and 94.4% reported the use of at least one DS during pregnancy (all trimesters) and in the first, second, and third trimesters of pregnancy, respectively. Significant differences were noted in the use of DS containing folic acid, calcium, iron, vitamins, and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), during the three trimesters of pregnancy. A higher proportion of DS use was negatively associated with certain categories of pregnant woman, including unemployed/housewife, low education level, obese, and low social support. A positive association was identified with gestational age.Conclusion for practice: Considering the high prevalence of DS use during pregnancy, future studies are needed to evaluate the accuracy and suitability of DS usage during pregnancy.
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Yang J, Reheman Z, Liu Y, Wang Y, Wang N, Ye J, Li Y, Nie J. The compliance of free folic acid supplements among pregnant women in rural areas of Northwestern China: The role of related knowledge. Front Public Health 2023; 10:1079779. [PMID: 36699923 PMCID: PMC9868550 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1079779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background High prevalence of neural tube defects remains one of the major threats to newborns in rural China. Folic acid supplementation before and during early pregnancy can effectively reduce the risk of neural tube defects. Despite the efforts of the free folic acid mass distribution, the actual usage of folic acid supplements was still suboptimal among rural pregnant women in China. The objective of this study is to investigate if and how knowledge can influence the picking up and intake of the free folic acid supplements distributed by the government. Methods We collected survey data from 821 pregnant women in rural areas of Shaanxi, China, in March and December of 2021. Face-to-face interviews and questionnaire surveys were conducted with every participant. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to test the relationship between knowledge and dependent variables. Results Our study found that there were 76.4% of pregnant women would pick up folic acid supplements distributed by the government and only 44.5% of women would use folic acid before current pregnancy. Awareness of folic acid policy both affects the picking up (OR: 6.708, 95% CI: 4.672-9.632) and periconceptional intake (OR: 1.912, 95% CI:1.326-2.758) of folic acid supplements. Knowledge of health and nutrition in pregnancy showed no significant relationship with the picking up and periconceptional intake of folic acid supplements but was positively associated with the intake duration (Coefficient: 9.278, 95% CI: 2.966-15.591). Conclusion Despite the relatively high level of picking up, the actual folic acid usage was not ideal among pregnant women in rural areas of China. Folic acid policy awareness was positively associated with the picking up and intake of folic acid before and during conception. Knowledge of health and nutrition about pregnancy was related to a longer duration of folic acid intake but had no impact on the picking up rate and periconceptional intake of folic acid supplements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yang
- Center for Experimental Economics in Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zulihumaer Reheman
- Center for Experimental Economics in Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yunjie Liu
- Center for Experimental Economics in Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Management, Strategy, and Entrepreneurship Department, College of Business, University of Houston-Victoria, Victoria, TX, United States
| | - Nan Wang
- Center for Experimental Economics in Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jinbiao Ye
- Center for Experimental Economics in Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yangyuan Li
- Center for Experimental Economics in Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jingchun Nie
- Center for Experimental Economics in Education, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
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Level of Knowledge and Awareness of Female Undergraduate Students and Determinants of Knowledge of Folic Acid and Supplementation. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022; 58:medicina58080986. [PMID: 35893101 PMCID: PMC9332624 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58080986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Folic acid (FA) is a necessary ingredient for numerous bodily activities including pregnancy. Because of this, women should have knowledge and awareness of the health benefits of FA supplementation. Thus, we aimed to investigate the level of knowledge on the importance of FA and determine associated factors for knowledge among female college students at King Saud University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Material and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using a questionnaire between January 2020 and February 2021 among female college students aged 17 to 26 years old. The questionnaire adapted with permission from Alnaami et al. included questions on the demographic profile of the participants as well as questions related to their knowledge and awareness of FA, FA supplementation, the importance of supplementation and their sources of knowledge of FA. Results: A total of 437 female undergraduate students participated in the study, 285 (65.2%) of whom were from the non-health colleges and 152 (34.8%) from the health colleges. The majority of participants were between ages 17 and 21 years old (n = 361, 82.6%). Half of the respondents were in their 3rd and 4th year of study (n = 122, 50.8%), 138 respondents (31.6%) were married, and 111 of these married women (80.4%) had children. There were 266 respondents (61.0%) who had heard and had knowledge of FA, 241 (55.3%) knew of FA timing of intake, 243 (55.7%) of FA duration of intake and 362 (83.0%) knew of the diseases prevented by FA supplementation. Linear regression analysis showed that being in the health college (B = 1.464, t = 11.37, p < 0.001, 95% CI = 1.211, 1.717) and a higher educational year level (B = 0.139, t = 2.442, p = 0.015, 95% CI = 0.027, 0.251) were the significant predictors of knowledge of FA. Conclusions: Knowledge of FA and FA supplementation was low at 61% considering that our study population were college students. Being enrolled in a health college and in a higher educational year level were significant positive correlates of higher knowledge of FA and FA supplementation. Despite this, there exists a gap of information regarding FA and FA supplementation particularly among single women and college educated women in the early years of their college life as well as those in non-health colleges.
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Wang W, Yang A, Zhang H, Li Y, Yang J, Zhao W, Wang Z, Lou H, Wang W, Liang T, Zhang L, Su X, Wang C, Wang J, Song J, Li L, Lv W, Zhao C, Hao M. Associations of RBC and Serum Folate Concentrations with Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia and High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Genotypes in Female Chinese Adults. J Nutr 2022; 152:466-474. [PMID: 35051275 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxab396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although folate status is associated with cervical carcinogenesis, it is not clear whether folate deficiency is associated with risk of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) progression and infection with high-risk human-papillomavirus (hrHPV). OBJECTIVES To evaluate the associations of RBC and serum folate concentrations with prevalence of CIN grades and hrHPV infection, their interactions with prevalence of CIN grades, and RBC folate with the risk of CIN1 progressing to CIN2. METHODS Using data from the Shanxi CIN cohort of 2304 female Chinese adults, we used logistic-regression model to estimate ORs and prevalence ratios (PRs) of RBC and serum folate concentrations with prevalence of CIN grades and hrHPV infection. Categoric and spline analyses were used to evaluate the dose-response relations. We estimated the association of RBC folate with risk of CIN1 progressing to CIN2 in the nested case-control cohort. RESULTS An inverse association was observed between increased RBC folate concentration and the odds of all CIN grades [quartile 1 (Q1) compared with Q4: OR: 2.28; 95% CI: 1.77, 2.93; Ptrend < 0.001]. Significant interaction of RBC folate and hrHPV infection was observed for prevalence of CIN2 or above (Pinteraction < 0.01). No associations were found between RBC and serum folate with PRs of hrHPV in each CIN grade. Over a median follow-up of 21.0 mo, RBC folate was associated with increased risk of CIN1 progressing to CIN2 (Q1 compared with Q4: OR: 3.86; 95% CI: 1.01, 14.76). CONCLUSIONS Our study indicates that RBC folate concentration is associated with prevalence of CIN grades and CIN1 progression in female Chinese adults. Maintenance of normal folate status is important for reducing the risk of CIN and its progression in women with or without hrHPV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Aimin Yang
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Hong Kong Institute of Diabetes and Obesity, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Huina Zhang
- Department of Pathology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Yuanxing Li
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Weihong Zhao
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Zhilian Wang
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Haixia Lou
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Wenhao Wang
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Tingting Liang
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Lili Zhang
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Su
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Pathology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Jintao Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Jinghui Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Huhhot, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Weiguo Lv
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chengquan Zhao
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Min Hao
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
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Santander Ballestín S, Giménez Campos MI, Ballestín Ballestín J, Luesma Bartolomé MJ. Is Supplementation with Micronutrients Still Necessary during Pregnancy? A Review. Nutrients 2021; 13:3134. [PMID: 34579011 PMCID: PMC8469293 DOI: 10.3390/nu13093134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Proper nutrition during pregnancy is important to prevent nutritional imbalances that interfere with pregnancy. Micronutrients play critical roles in embryogenesis, fetal growth, and maternal health, as energy, protein, vitamin, and mineral needs can increase during pregnancy. Increased needs can be met by increasing the intake of dietary micronutrients. Severe micronutrient deficiency or excess during pregnancy can have negative effects on fetal growth (intrauterine growth retardation, low birth weight, or congenital malformations) and pregnancy development (pre-eclampsia or gestational diabetes). We investigate whether it is necessary to continue micronutrient supplementation during pregnancy to improve women's health in this stage and whether this supplementation could prevent and control pathologies associated with pregnancy. AIM The present review aims to summarize evidence on the effects of nutritional deficiencies on maternal and newborn morbidity. METHODS This aim is addressed by critically reviewing results from published studies on supplementation with different nutrients during pregnancy. For this, major scientific databases, scientific texts, and official webpages have been consulted. PubMed searches using the terms "pregnancy" OR "maternal-fetal health" AND "vitamins" OR "minerals" OR "supplementation" AND "requirement" OR "deficiency nutrients" were performed. RESULTS There are accepted interventions during pregnancy, such as folic acid supplementation to prevent congenital neural tube defects, potassium iodide supplementation to correct neurodevelopment, and oral iron supplementation during the second half of pregnancy to reduce the risk of maternal anemia and iron deficiency. A number of micronutrients have also been associated with pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, and nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. In general, experimental studies are necessary to demonstrate the benefits of supplementation with different micronutrients and to adjust the recommended daily doses and the recommended periconceptional nutrition for mothers. CONCLUSIONS Presently, there is evidence of the benefits of micronutrient supplementation in perinatal results, but indiscriminate use is discouraged due to the fact that the side effects of excessive doses are not known. Evidence supports the idea that micronutrient deficiencies negatively affect maternal health and the outcome of pregnancy. No single micronutrient is responsible for the adverse effects; thus, supplementing or correcting one deficiency will not be very effective while other deficiencies exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Santander Ballestín
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Legal and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | | | - María José Luesma Bartolomé
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Science, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain;
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