Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin (unspecified)
For the health condition: Birth Defects (prevention)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 5

Vitamins, particularly folic acid (vitamin B9), are scientifically validated for the prevention of certain birth defects, especially neural tube defects (NTDs) such as spina bifida and anencephaly. Robust evidence demonstrates that periconceptional folic acid supplementation (usually 400 micrograms daily) significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects when taken before conception and during early pregnancy. Multiple large-scale randomized controlled trials and observational studies, as well as meta-analyses, have shown a clear protective effect. As a result, health authorities including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommend folic acid supplementation for women of childbearing age.

Other vitamins, such as vitamin B12, may also play a supportive role in reducing the risk of certain congenital anomalies, especially in populations where deficiencies are common. However, folic acid has the strongest and most consistent evidence base. The widespread adoption of folic acid fortification in food supplies in several countries has led to measurable decreases in the incidence of neural tube defects, further supporting its role. Thus, the use of specific vitamins, especially folic acid, for the prevention of birth defects is strongly supported by scientific research and public health policy.

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