Awareness and knowledge of the use of folic acid during the procreative period and during pregnancy among women from the Podkarpackie Province

Introduction: Folic acid is of great importance for the proper functioning of the human body. It has a major impact on the metabolism of amino acids, nucleic acids and plays a special role in tissues where intensive cell division takes place. Its deficiency in pregnant women may contribute to neural tube defects in the foetus. Elimination of the causes of deficiency and adequate folate supplementation are recommended. Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the level of knowledge and awareness among adult women from the Podkarpackie Province regarding the use of folic acid during the procreative period and pregnancy. Materials and methods: A total of 436 women of different ages participated in the study conducted in June 2023. The study group consisted of women from the Podkarpackie Voivodeship over 18 years of age. Material for the study was collected using an anonymous author's online questionnaire. The results obtained were analysed and compared with the literature available in the PubMed database. Results: The questions with the highest number of correct answers concerned the possible consequences of lack of supplementation and the period of pregnancy during which the fetus is at risk of developing neural tube defects. Questions concerning the ability of the intestinal microflora to synthesise folic acid and the recommended period to start supplementation before the planned pregnancy proved problematic. Education was shown to significantly affect the level of knowledge about folic acid. Summary: The level of knowledge about folic acid among women in the Podkarpackie voivodship is satisfactory. However, it is still necessary to educate women of reproductive age and inform them about the potential consequences of not supplementing this compound during pregnancy. Education should rest not only with the gynaecologist, but also with the primary care physician.