Abstract:
Preconception folic acid (FA) supplementation is a key to prevent neural tube defects among
children. A better knowledge on importance of FA would increase its intake preconceptionally.This study was carried out to assess the awareness, practices and determinants of preconception
FA intake of the antenatal mothers in Galle.A cross-sectional study was carried out recruiting 350 antenatal mothers attending the field
antenatal clinics conducted by the Bope-Poddala Medical Officer of Health, health unit area.
Data on preconception FA intake and the awareness on the importance of FA were collected
through a self-administered questionnaire. Univariate and multivariate regression analysis were
performed to detect the factors associated with FA intake and awareness. Significance level
was considered as p<0.05.
