Update on folic acid and disease prevention
Folic acid is highly effective for prevention of neural tube defects (NTDs) when administered in the first trimester of pregnancy and the benefits are linearly related to plasma folate levels. Folic acid also lowers plasma homocysteine that has been linked with risk of stroke. However, the effects of different folic acid fortification types on NTD prevalence and stroke are uncertain. This presentation will review current folic acid fortification policies and their relevance for NTD and stroke prevention.

Robert Clarke is a Professor of Epidemiology and Public Health Medicine, Clinical Trial Service Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford.
Date: 13 June 2023, 13:00 (Tuesday, 8th week, Trinity 2023)
Venue: Richard Doll Building, Old Road Campus OX3 7LF
Venue Details: Richard Doll Lecture Theatre
Speaker: Professor Robert Clarke (Nuffield Department of Population Health)
Organising department: Nuffield Department of Population Health
Organiser: Graham Bagley (University of Oxford, Nuffield Department of Population Health)
Part of: Richard Doll Seminars
Booking required?: Not required
Audience: Members of the University only
Editor: Isobel Young