On this page
- NTDs Background
HCET Home > On-line Training > Folic Acid: Getting the Word Out > 1. Background of Neural Tube Defects
1. Background of Neural Tube Defects
The neural tube develops between the 2nd and 4th week of gestation. In the United States, approximately 4,000 pregnancies yearly are affected with neural tube defects - NTDs. Of these pregnancies, approximately 2,500 babies are born with NTDs. Factors associated with increased risk of neural tube defects include:
- Ethnicity;
- Genetics/environment;
- Maternal conditions;
- Medications taken during pregnancy;
- Previous NTD; and
- Low socioeconomic status.
3 Types of Neural Tube Defects (NTDs)
| 1. Anencephaly | 2. Spina bifida | 3. Encephalocele |
 |
 |
 |
NTDs frequently require complex medical management, often including multiple surgeries. For example, spina bifida often causes lifelong disabilities, including:
- paralysis;
- loss of bowel and bladder control; and
- variable learning disabilities.
Prognosis can vary depending on the size and the location of the defect, and whether or not the defect is skin covered or exposed.
In addition to the physical difficulties, the emotional impact of an NTD is immeasurable.
