Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Physicians Regarding Periconceptional Folic Acid

Abstract

Background Expert guidelines recommend low-risk women to consume a daily multivitamin supplement containing 400 µg of folic acid (FA) to prevent the occurrence of neural tube defects. This study assessed the knowledge, attitude and practice of physicians regarding FA recommendations, status and health outcomes during pregnancy since physicians play an essential role in promoting appropriate FA intake. Methods A cross-sectional survey of a sample of physicians practicing in the National Capital Region was self-administered in 2018-2019. Results Approximately 70% of physicians were not familiar with the most recent guidelines and 55% of them most often recommend a 1000 µg-FA supplement. A high level of willingness to recommend a supplement containing 400 µg-FA was reported by almost all physicians. Conclusion While most physicians would not feel comfortable recommending a supplement that is not in line with the most recent evidence-based guidelines, educational programs targeted to physicians are needed to improve their knowledge, attitude and practice.