Folic acid is crucial for the prevention of neural tube defects (NTDs) in newborns, such as spina bifida and anencephaly. These congenital anomalies occur early in pregnancy, often before a woman knows she is pregnant. Therefore, adequate folic acid intake is recommended for all women of childbearing age. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that folic acid fortification in food has significantly reduced the incidence of NTDs.
