Journal Article Summary
The article investigates folate deficiency and the awareness and use of folic acid fortified flour among pregnant women attending an antenatal clinic at Pumwani Maternity Hospital in Kenya. This topic is significant because folate deficiency during pregnancy can lead to serious health issues for both mothers and their babies, including neural tube defects and other congenital conditions. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of mandatory folic acid fortification of flour, which was implemented in Kenya in 2012, in reducing folate deficiency among pregnant women.
The researchers conducted a cross-sectional survey involving 259 pregnant women who were attending their first antenatal visit. Blood samples were taken to measure serum folate levels, and participants were interviewed about their awareness and consumption of folic acid and fortified flour. The results showed that only 1% of the women had folate deficiency, while 73% were aware of folic acid, but only 23% knew about fortified flour. Despite low awareness of the specific benefits of fortified flour, a high percentage of participants reported consuming fortified maize and wheat flour.
However, the study has limitations, including its short duration and focus on a single hospital, which may not represent the entire population of Kenya. Additionally, the reliance on self-reported data could introduce bias. Readers should discuss their folate intake and any concerns about deficiency with a healthcare professional, especially if they are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, to ensure they receive appropriate guidance and support.
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Article Cited
- Mgamb Elizabeth, Gura Zeinab, Wanzala Peter, Githuku Jane, Makokha Anselimo. Folate deficiency and utilization of folic acid fortified flour among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at Pumwani Maternity Hospital, Kenya, 2015. The Pan African Medical Journal 2017. DOI: 10.11604/pamj.supp.2017.28.1.9296. PMID: 30197735. PMCID: PMC6125111.
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