Awareness of Folic Acid Intake for Prevention of Neural Tube Defects among Women in Sakaka, Saudi Arabia

Background and Objectives: Folic Acid (FA) supplementation reduces the risk of Neural Tube Defects (NTDs). This study aimed to determine the awareness of FA's ability to prevent NTDs among women of childbearing age in the Aljouf region of Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: From May-July, 2017 in Sakaka, Saudi Arabia, a sample of 400 non-pregnant women aged 19-45 years old completed surveys on FA and its impact before and during pregnancy. Results: In total, 89.3% of the women had heard of FA, 74.8% knew that FA could prevent NTDs, 81.5% had used FA previously, 50.3% were currently taking FA and 3.3% had experienced miscarriages and given birth to children with NTDs. Only 5.5% of the subjects reported knowing that FA should be taken prior to and during the first trimester of pregnancy. Participants aged 26-35 years old had significantly greater FA awareness and knowledge compared to the other age groups. The data revealed a significant positive correlation between education level and FA awareness and knowledge. Women with lower gravidity had significantly less FA awareness and knowledge. Women who planned to become pregnant were significantly more likely to be taking FA supplements. Conclusion: Healthcare professionals, public health officials and the media need to increase efforts to spread awareness of the importance and timing of FA supplementation toward reducing the risk of NTDs.