Preconception folic acid supplementation for the prevention of birth defects: a prospective, population-based cohort study in mainland China.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Folic acid supplementation is recommended for reducing the risk of birth defects. We aimed to assess the protective association of periconception folic acid supplements with birth defects in real-world setting.

Methods

This prospective, population-based cohort study utilized national preconception registered data of married Chinese couples planning a pregnancy within 6 months between 2010 and 2012 in Mainland China. Participated women are freely provided folic acid starting 3 months before conception till 3 months after conception. Birth defects were self-reported at 42 days postpartumn followup. R software (v4.0.2) was applied for statistical analyses.

Results

Complete data of 567,547 couples with pregnancy outcomes and folic acid supplementation were extr

SUBMITTER: Zhou Q 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10845381 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature