Folic acid supplementation during preconception period in sub-Saharan African countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are serious congenital anomalies of the central nervous system caused by disruptions in early embryonic development. The prevalence is about twice as common in low- and middle-income countries and more prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa. Folic acid deficiency is a major risk factor and common during pregnancy. However, limited research on preconception folic acid supplementation in this region highlights the need for systematic reviews and targeted interventions to improve maternal and fetal health.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature search in EMBASE, MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL, Google Scholar, and Google for studies on the proportion of folic acid supplementation during the preconception period, covering publications up to January

SUBMITTER: Aweke MN 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11785287 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature