[Periconceptional intake of folate reduces the risk of neural tube defects: awareness among urologists in 2007].

Aims: Folic acid is one of water-soluble Vitamin B group and plays an important role in proliferating cells of the fetus. A multicentered, randomized control trial proved in 1991 that folic acid supplements of 4 mg per day periconceptionally administered to 1031 women who were recruited from 7 countries and had afflicted prior pregnancy successfully prevented 72% of recurrence of neural tube defects. As a primary prevention method, the Government has recommended to take 400 microgram of folate supplements per day from 4 weeks before and 12 weeks after conception.