Folic acid is working! Spina bifida rates drop

In my final years as a goodwill ambassador for the March of Dimes, we spent much of our time encouraging pregnant women to make sure they get enough Folic acid each day.  Folic acid, found in orange juice and various other fruits and vegetables, was thought to help prevent birth defects such as Spina bifida (Dan's disability).

Some vegetables high in Folic acid. Picture courtesy of markmincolla.com.

Now, according to MedPage Today, that belief is coming true!  As this article shows, the rate of Spina bifida dropped annually by a rate of 1.4% from 1991-2002. 

This is a perfect example of how research and outreach came together to form the perfect storm.  Researchers found the link between Folic acid and a lower rate of birth defects, while those involved with the March of Dimes and other organizations spread the word.  Well done on all fronts.  Now ladies, go drink some orange juice!