Periconceptional folate supplementation for the prevention of congenital heart diseases: A review of literatures

Abstract

Background: Folate is essential for metabolism and development. So, folate metabolism abnormalities are common in infants with some congenital defects. An infant born to mothers with normal folate status has more resistant to congenital heart diseases (CHDs). Evidence on risk factors for developmental defects resulting from drug use before conception and during pregnancy is still very limited. The relationship between folic acid for mothers before and throughout pregnancy and the incidence of fetal malformations and diseases have been recognized. Aims: This article is a rapid review for assessment of the folic acid supplementation as a preventive measure of CHDs during fetal development, and what is already recognized about a policy of this subject, by using systematic review methods to search some of the existing researches. Materials: publications related to determining and quantifying the use of folate by pregnant mothers to decrease the risk of congenital heart diseases were reviewed. Many studies have confirmed the reduction of congenital heart diseases by folic acid supplementation prior to pregnancy. Conclusion: the protective effect of folic acid against congenital heart abnormalities has been established. Though, the dose and time of supplementation are not known; more researches are needed to explain the mechanisms.