Folic Acid and Embryonic Development - A Literary Up-Date

Abstract

Background: Folic acid, a commonly prescribed antenatal prophylactic drug is essential for the normal development and growth of the conspectuses, and healthiness of the mother. The laxity in the seriousness of adherence to the medical advice on supplemental intake of the drug by women of reproductive age and particularly at pregnancy among the rural dwellers calls for a re-look into the dangers of such negligence and a re-emphasis of the need for compliant. Methods: Retrospective and contemporary literature reports on the importance of folic acid and the toxicity of its deficiencies during embryonic development both clinically and experimentally were compiled and presented. Observation: Most information obtainable on the importance of folic acid had been via experimental approach; with little efforts and emphasis at relating these to the clinical manifestations of the vitamin cum public awareness. Conclusion: Frantic efforts at orientation to strict adherence of the supplemental dosage of 5mg daily of folic acid at pregnancy, plus fortified meals would prevent or alleviate the feto-maternal anomalies usually associated with the vitamin deficiencies.