News– Many countries run folic acid–based awareness programmes to prevent Spina Bifida, but India lacks large-scale efforts.
About Spina Bifida
- Spina Bifida is a congenital birth defect in which the spine and spinal cord do not form completely during early pregnancy.
- It is one of the leading causes of childhood paralysis, with severity ranging from mild weakness in the legs to complete loss of movement.
- Cause– The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is associated with a combination of genetic factors, nutritional deficiencies (especially folic acid), and environmental influences.
Types of Spina Bifida
- Myelomeningocele: The most severe form, where the spinal cord and nerves protrude through the back. Children often face paralysis, bowel and bladder dysfunction, and long-term disability.
- Meningocele: A fluid-filled sac bulges out through the spine, but the spinal cord remains largely normal, resulting in comparatively milder symptoms.
- Spina bifida occulta: The mildest and often hidden form, involving a small defect in the spine, usually without visible signs or noticeable symptoms.
Common symptoms include weakness or paralysis of the legs, loss of sensation in the lower limbs, back pain, and bowel–bladder dysfunction. Some affected children may also develop hydrocephalus, orthopaedic deformities (such as club foot), and urinary incontinence, though intellectual abilities are generally normal.
India Scenario
India records one of the highest prevalence rates of spina bifida globally, with over 25,000 children affected each year, largely due to low awareness and inadequate preventive care.
Prevention and Treatment
- Prevention: More than 70% of cases can be prevented through adequate folic acid intake before conception and during early pregnancy.
- Treatment: There is no permanent cure, but timely medical and surgical interventions, along with rehabilitation, can significantly improve survival, functionality, and quality of life.
