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Neural-tube defects and vitamins: the need for a randomized clinical trial
Article first published online: 23 AUG 2005
DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.1984.tb04796.x
Issue
1471-0528/asset/cover.gif?v=1&s=b4e1d96c46e18c61210d584b63c13ee375cf562b "BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology")
BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Volume 91, Issue 6, pages 516–523, June 1984
Additional Information
How to Cite
WALD, N. J. and POLANI, P. E. (1984), Neural-tube defects and vitamins: the need for a randomized clinical trial. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 91: 516–523. doi: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.1984.tb04796.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 23 AUG 2005
- Article first published online: 23 AUG 2005
- Received 2 November 1983 Accepted 25 January 1984
- Abstract
- References
- Cited By
Summary
It has been suggested that taking extra vitamins around the time of conception may reduce the risk of fetal neural-tube defects. We have examined the evidence for this and conclude that there is considerable doubt about the efficacy of such a regimen. Also, it cannot be assumed that the taking of extra vitamins has no adverse medical effects. We give reasons for our view that a large randomized clinical trial is ethical and the only satisfactory way of resolving the matter. The Medical Research Council is currently conducting such a study in centres in Britain and abroad, involving women who have already had a pregnancy with a fetal neural-tube defect. The design of the Medical Research Council study is described briefly.