Birth Defects and Folic Acid

Birth Defects are a serious problem impacting the physical and emotional health of many Michigan children and their families. They are the single leading cause of death in children under one year of age. About one in 33 babies is born with a serious birth defect, and approximately 8,000 Michigan babies each year are found to have a condition affecting their health or development.

Prevention.

Some birth defects can be prevented. For example, spina bifida is a neural tube defect caused by incomplete development of the spinal cord. Neural tube defects can be prevented by taking enough folic acid before and during the first month of pregnancy. For more information about ways to prevent certain birth defects click here to view the brochure Preventing Birth Defects. If you would like to order this pamphlet click here .

Monitoring. Since 1992 the Michigan Birth Defects Registry (MBDR) as mandated by state law (PA 236 of 1988, H.B. 4007), has been tracking the number and types of birth defects that occur in the state. More than 800 different kinds of birth defects are monitored. The confidential registry relies on reports from hospitals and some genetic laboratories within 30 days of a child's first diagnosis. To find summaries of birth defects data, visit the link www.mdch.state.mi.us/pha/osr/index.asp .

Follow-up. Assuring that families receive information in a timely manner while protecting the privacy of birth defects data is a major priority. A free pamphlet describing statewide resources and services is available to families, hospitals, and anyone working with infants or toddlers who have special health care needs. The Genetic Support Group Directory provides links to additional resources statewide. To view the brochure Resources for Families of Infants and Toddlers with Special Health Needs, click here and to order this pamphlet click here.

Prevention web sites of interest. Listed below are national web sites that you can visit for more information about folic acid and other prevention materials.

Professionals. For more information about folic acid for your patients, visit the FolicAcid.net website to view the guide for health professionals, a collection of resources on education, professional services, research, and much more.

Parents. Parents who need additional help finding resources or services may contact the state�s Birth Defects Follow-up Coordinator by email at BDRfollowup@michigan.gov or call toll free 1-866-852-1247.