Folic Acid Campaigners Across Europe
On June 28 2011, folic acid campaigners came together from across Europe for a workshop run by the International Federation for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (IF).
The event, organized by the IF, was part of its EU Executive Workshop "Making our network stronger - Raising awareness on prevention".
Neural Tube Defects are among the few medical conditions that can be prevented with the simple use of a vitamin, folic acid.
Those who attended, now have the challenge og making sure that this information reaches the general public in time, which is before a woman becomes pregnant, and IF have now said, "..governments need to act and develop national health policies which include prevention strategies."
IF invited a selection of speakers from within its own organisation and from its network to help European IF members to raise awareness on prevention in their countries.
Examples of good practice were presented from the UK, Norway and Italy, information was provided on how to prepare a national campaign, as well as on flour fortification with folic acid, and how to use social media.