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Source — Source: TH ///Category — GS Paper 1 ///Published — 2026-01-09 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — Rapid Fire, Quick Facts For Prelims, GS Paper - 2 ///Source — Source: TH ///Category — GS Paper 1 ///Published — 2026-01-09 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — Rapid Fire, Quick Facts For Prelims, GS Paper - 2 ///

Source: TH · GS Paper 1

Spina Bifida

India records one of the highest global prevalence rates of spina bifida at about 4 per 1,000 births, affecting over 25,000 children annually. The condition underscores critical public‑health gaps in preventive nutrition, specialised care and health‑system financing, making it a priority for UPSC aspirants.

2026-01-09

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Source: TH

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Definition

Spina Bifida: A congenital neural tube defect where the spinal cord fails to close completely during early fetal development.

Prevalence in India

Approx. 4 cases per 1,000 births – among the highest worldwide.
Over 25,000 children are born with the condition each year.

Clinical Features

Neurological: Hydrocephalus, partial/complete paralysis of lower limbs, paraplegia.
Urological/Gastrointestinal: Urinary and bowel incontinence.
Orthopaedic: Visible swelling on the back, club foot, other deformities.
Cognitive: Intellectual abilities are usually normal.

Impact on Health & Society

Increases under‑five mortality and long‑term disability burden.
>75% of affected children lack access to specialised medical and surgical care, leading to financial and emotional distress for families.
Escalates long‑term healthcare costs and strains public health resources.

Prevention & Public Health Measures

Periconceptional folic acid supplementation can prevent >70% of spina bifida cases (global evidence since 1991).
Fortification of commonly consumed beverages (e.g., tea) with folate and Vitamin B12 is being explored to curb neural‑tube defects.
Integration with existing maternal‑health programmes (e.g., National Rural Health Mission, Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan) is essential.

Policy & Programme Implications

Constitutional backing: Article 21 (right to life) extends to health protection for children.
Need for mandatory folic‑acid fortification of staple foods (e.g., wheat flour) under the Food Safety and Standards Act.
Strengthening service delivery and specialised paediatric neurosurgery capacity in district hospitals.
Aligning with SDG 3 – Good Health and Well‑being and the National Health Policy’s focus on preventive nutrition.

Recent Research

Studies suggest tea fortification with folate & B12 could simultaneously address anaemia and neural‑tube defects.
Ongoing trials on community‑based supplementation models to improve coverage among women of reproductive age.