Food Fortification with Folic Acid to Prevent Life-Threatening Birth Defects Worldwide

Birth defects are one of the leading causes of stillbirths and child mortality globally. There is a global inequity in birth defects prevention through proven public health interventions such as staple food fortification with folic acid, an essential micronutrient. We present the epidemiology of neural tube birth defects that are largely preventable, and the method of preventing them through food fortification. Nutrition International and Food Fortification Initiative will present their work in achieving global prevention of neural tube defects. We will also present a story of advocacy, featuring the Global Alliance for Prevention of Folic Acid-Preventable Spina Bifida (GAPSBi-F) and the International Federation for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus. These are two global organizations that are leading efforts on prevention through active advocacy. All the talks in this panel will cover the importance of primary prevention of major birth defects thus improving child health, especially in low- and middle-income countries.