Various studies have shown the high incidence of neural tube defects (NTD) in Turkey. The estimated incidence is around 3 per 1,000 live births. A nationwide survey taking place in Obstetrics and Gynecology Departments of üniversity hospitals has demonstrated that the incidence is highest in northern and eastern Anatolia, 4.32 and 4.94 per 1,000 live births, respectively. The incidence of NTD among illiterate mothers was as high as 9.1 per 1000 live births. Among genetic factors, MTHFR 677C→ T polymorphism has been implicated in susceptibility to NTD in different populations. However, this polymorphism was not found to be a risk factor for NTD in the Turkish population in one study. Folic acid supplements taken periconceptionally have been definitely proven to significantly reduce the risk of NTD, and this scientific evidence has been translated into public health policies in many countries. Therefore, for primary prevention of NTD, folic acid supplementation and fortification of food with folic acid have vital importance in Turkey, and new policies must be developed by responsible bodies such as the Ministry of Health, universities, and nongovernmental organizations.

Keywords: nöral tüp defektleri, önlem, folik asit, neural tube defects, prevention, folic acid.