(DOWNLOAD) "Erythrocyte Folate Analysis: A Cause for Concern?(Opinion)" by Clinical Chemistry " eBook PDF Kindle ePub Free
eBook details
- Title: Erythrocyte Folate Analysis: A Cause for Concern?(Opinion)
- Author : Clinical Chemistry
- Release Date : January 01, 1998
- Genre: Chemistry,Books,Science & Nature,
- Pages : * pages
- Size : 177 KB
Description
Spina bifida and related neural tube defects of anencephaly and encephalocele are major causes of perinatal, infant, and childhood mortality and morbidity. Although screening (maternal serum [alpha]-fetoprotein estimation or fetal ultrasound examination) has led to a fall in the number of children born with neural tube defects through termination of pregnancy (1, 2), it cannot prevent the development of these defects or the associated parental distress. There is now firm evidence that the majority of neural tube defects can be prevented by an adequate intake of periconceptional folate, a B-group vitamin found especially in leafy green vegetables, some other vegetables and fruits, and whole-grain cereals. All studies (case-control and cohort studies; nonrandomized and randomized controlled trials) (3) showed a reduction in risk with increased intake of either dietary folates or supplemental folic acid. These studies have led to renewed interest in the analysis of red blood cell folate (RCF) [1] as an indicator of folate deficiency risk in women of child-bearing age. Additional interest in the analysis of RCF as an indicator of folate deficiency risk in the general population is generated by the inverse associations between folate status and the risk of cardiovascular disease (4) and various cancers (5, 6).