AMC researchers uncover folic acid's key role in preventing Neural Tube Defects

Visakhapatnam: Researchers from the Andhra Medical College (AMC) here have achieved success in the fight against congenital Neural Tube Defects (NTDs), particularly addressing spina bifida.

The first-of-its-kind study in India, conducted by a team of experts from AMC along with international collaborators, focused on the crucial role of folic acid intake before and during pregnancy in preventing NTDs.

Spina bifida is a rare congenital condition that hinders proper development of the spinal cord in the womb, resulting in permanent disability. The study, published in the prestigious Journal of the American Medical Association’s Network on March 8 outlined an innovative approach that utilises specially fortified salt to significantly reduce the risk of NTDs.

What are Neural Tube Defects?

NTDs, including spina bifida and anencephaly, are birth defects of the central nervous system that take place during early embryonic development when the neural tube (that encloses the baby’s spinal cord and brain) does not completely close along its entire length. The neural tube usually closes 15 to 28 days after conception, even before a woman realises that she is pregnant.

Neural tube defects can affect the spinal bones, the spinal cord or the nerve roots extending from the spine to the body. Causes of NTDs have been linked to genetics, maternal nutrition (including folic acid deficiency) during pregnancy or other environmental factors.

1,200 participants

The study, conducted in four villages of Alluri Seetharama Raju District, involved the distribution of folic acid-fortified salt to 1,200 participants over a four-month period. Blood tests conducted post-intervention revealed a significant increase in folic acid levels among participants, indicating a reduced risk of NTDs. Notably, no adverse side effects were reported.

‘A simple and effective solution to NTDs’

Highlighting the importance of the study and the positive outcome of using fortified salts, principal of AMC, Dr G Butchi Raju pointed out a potential global impact on preventing NTDs in the future.

“The study’s findings suggest that fortified salt could serve as a simple yet effective solution to this pressing health challenge. The achievement also makes AMC a frontrunner in innovative public health interventions,” he said.

Dr MV Vijaya Sekhar, head of the Neurosurgery department at Rangaraya Medical College, who had also been associated with AMC and has been a part of the study, emphasised the severity of NTDs and the importance of their preventive measures, especially in areas with limited access to treatment.

“The fortified salt solution offers a readily available approach to tackling this critical public health issue,” he averred.

Anil Kumar, the project coordinator, commended the medical community’s pivotal role in driving public health initiatives forward. “This research marks a significant milestone in preventing birth defects, showcasing the effectiveness of collaborative efforts in promoting public health on a global scale. The potential impact of this innovative approach in preventing NTDs is indeed a beacon of hope for communities worldwide,” said the project coordinator.

Meet the team

The collaborative effort behind the study involved a team of experts from India and abroad, including Dr MV Vijaya Sekhar, Dr B Hayagriva Rao, Dr Phani Madhavi, and Anil Kumar. Noteworthy contributions were also made by Dr Jogi V Pattisapu of UCF’s College of Medicine, USA, Dr Godfrey P Oakley, MD, and Dr Vijaya Kancherla from Emory University, USA. The study received funding from the PRJ Gangadharam Research and Academic Cell and also from Dr Jogi Pattisapu.