Birth Defects Research Article

Prevention and Care: A Dual Approach to Spina Bifida in Ethiopia

Spina bifida is one of the most common—and preventable—birth defects in Ethiopia, affecting an estimated 10,500 newborns each year. The burden is heavy: many children do not receive timely surgical care, and the lack of early intervention leads to high rates of stillbirth and early childhood death.

A new article authored by ReachAnother and our partners explores two complementary solutions that could transform the outlook for thousands of children: national mandatory folic acid fortification of staple foods like wheat and maize, and increased neurosurgical capacity through targeted training programs.

Mandatory folic acid fortification is a proven, cost-effective strategy for preventing neural tube defects like spina bifida. At the same time, ensuring access to neurosurgery and sustained clinical care gives children with spina bifida the best chance at a healthy, full life.

Together, these interventions offer a roadmap for change—one that could significantly reduce birth defects while also freeing up surgical capacity for other urgent needs.

📖 Read the full article in Birth Defects Research: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/bdr2.1857