Folic Acid Use Among Women and Doctors
Author Information
Author(s): Auriel Eithan, Aya Biderman, Ilana Belmaker, Tamar Freud, Roni Peleg
Primary Institution: Ben-Gurion University of the Negev
Hypothesis
How does folic acid consumption differ between Jewish and Bedouin women, and what are the recommendations from family physicians and gynecologists?
Conclusion
Most women take folic acid during pregnancy, but very few do so before conception, highlighting a gap between recommendations and practice.
Supporting Evidence
- 78.5% of Jewish women took folic acid during pregnancy, but only 10.8% before conception.
- 93.75% of Bedouin women took folic acid during pregnancy, but only 6.25% before conception.
- 87% of gynecologists recommend preconception folic acid compared to 60% of family physicians.
Takeaway
This study shows that many women take folic acid when they are pregnant, but not enough take it before getting pregnant, which is important to prevent birth defects.
Methodology
The study compared folic acid consumption among 64 Bedouin women and 65 Jewish women, as well as recommendations from 39 gynecologists and 60 family physicians.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported data from women regarding folic acid use.
Limitations
The study's sample size is relatively small and may not represent the broader population.
Participant Demographics
Participants included pregnant Jewish and Bedouin women, with varying levels of education and socioeconomic status.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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