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SPINA BIFIDA
WHAT IS IT?
Spina bifida is a birth defect, in which the spine fails to close properly.
It affects 1 to 2 of every 1,000 births. In severe case, the spinal cord protrudes
through the back. To minimize infection and to preserve spinal cord function,
surgery is needed within the first 24 hours. Damage to the spinal cord can cause
varying degrees of paralysis and loss of feeling in the lower limbs, as well
as bowel and bladder complications. Hydrocephalus, a build-up of fluid on the
brain, also affects a large percentage of children with spina bifida.
THE CAUSE
A definite cause is not known at this time. It appears that the condition
results from a combination of environmental and genetic factors.
THE PREVENTION
The United States Public Health Service recommends that, "All women
of childbearing age who are capable of becoming pregnant should consume 0.4mg
of folic acid per day to reduce the risk of pregnancy affected with spina bifida
and other neural tube defects." Folic acid is a "B" vitamin found
in cereals, broccoli, spinach, corn, and as a vitamin supplement.
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