Social and ethnic differences in folic acid use preconception and during early pregnancy in the UK: effect on maternal folate status.
J Hum Nutr Diet. 2009 Apr; 22(2):100-7.JH

Abstract

BACKGROUND

The role of folate supplementation in preventing neural tube defects is well known; however, preconception supplement use continues to be low, especially amongst the socially disadvantaged. The present study explored periconception folic acid supplement use in a socially deprived, ethnically diverse population.

METHODS

Pregnant women (n = 402) in the first trimester of pregnancy were recruited in East London. Using a researcher led questionnaire, details were obtained regarding social class, ethnicity and folic acid use. Red cell folate levels were determined for 367 participants during the first trimester.

RESULTS

Although 76% of participants reported using folic acid supplements during the first trimester, only 12% started preconception and a further 17% started before neural tube closure. Mothers from higher social groups or with higher levels of education were more likely to use folic acid and started taking it earlier. Ethnic differences were also seen in preconception usage (Africans, 5%; West Indians, 8%; Asians, 12%; Caucasians, 19%; P = 0.038). Participants who took folic acid supplements had significantly higher mean (SD) red cell folate concentrations than those who took none [936 (*\1.6) and 579 (*\1.6) nmol L(-1), respectively; P < 0.001].

CONCLUSIONS

Folic acid supplement use preconception and prior to neural tube closure continues to be low, exhibiting both social and ethnic disparities.

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Authors+Show Affiliations

Brough L
Institute of Food Nutrition and Human Health, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand. l.brough@massey.ac.nz
Rees GA
No affiliation info available
Crawford MA
No affiliation info available
Dorman EK
No affiliation info available

MeSH

AdultDietary SupplementsFemaleFolic AcidHealth Status DisparitiesHumansLondonMaternal Nutritional Physiological PhenomenaNeural Tube DefectsPreconception CarePregnancyPrenatal CareSocioeconomic FactorsVitamin B ComplexYoung Adult

Pub Type(s)

Journal Article
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Language

eng

PubMed ID

19226351