Spina Bifida is a birth defect that can happen to anyone. There is no known cause of Spina Bifida, but research has shown that if a woman takes 400 mcg of folic acid every day and before she becomes pregnant, she reduces her risk of having a baby with Spina Bifida or another neural tube defect by as much as 70%. The exact cause of the rest of the cases is unknown, but it is believed that genetics and environment may play a role.

Through its prevention programs and services, SBA works with health care professionals to ensure this important information is reaching the 65 million women of childbearing age.

• NHPC ListServ: Provides an online discussion resource for nurses, nursing students, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other health care personnel who are routinely involved in the treatment and care of individuals with Spina Bifida.
  
  
• ABCs of Folic Acid: Online tutorial of folic acid facts. Free CEUs are available.
  
  
• ABCs of Folic Acid Counseling
  
  
  
  
• Got A Minute?: SBA’s folic acid training for health professionals.
  
  
• Professional Power: A planning guide for health professionals to spread the word about folic acid.
  
  
• Recurrence Prevention: Educational information on incidents of recurrence in Spina Bifida and prevention methods.
   
  
• “B” Healthy Recipes: Delicious and healthy recipes rich in folic acid, a water-soluble B vitamin.