What is Spina Bifida?

Spina Bifida is the most commonly occurring complex birth defect in this country affecting over 166,000 individuals. It occurs when the spine of the baby fails to close during the first month of pregnancy, leaving a permanent opening in the spinal column. Those who are born with Spina Bifida must learn to live with conditions such as hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain), full or partial paralysis, bladder and bowel complications, learning disabilities, depression, and deadly latex allergy as well as social issues.

There is no known cause of Spina Bifida and each of the 65 million women of childbearing age in this country are at risk for an affected pregnancy. It is estimated that up to 70 percent of birth defects like Spina Bifida can be prevented with a daily dose of 400 micrograms of folic acid every day prior to pregnancy. It is vital that every woman of childbearing age receive this message and by participating in the Walk-N-Roll for Spina Bifida, you can help!