The Spina Bifida Genetics Research Project is starting the second phase of a study to determine if genetic variations in folic acid metabolism account for an increased risk of having a child affected by Spina Bifida.

From the results of the study, it may be possible to develop a test that can identify women who may not be adequately protected by standard prenatal vitamins, but who might benefit from high dose folic acid therapy prior to conception.

We are seeking mothers who have had children with Spina Bifida, and who did not participate in the first phase of this study, which was conducted in 2009-2010. We are also enrolling mothers of children who have not had children affected by Spina Bifida to serve as controls for the analysis.

Participants in the study are asked to complete a brief online survey and provide a DNA sample using a simple, at-home saliva collection kit that is delivered and returned by mail. For more information and to enroll in the Spina Bifida Genetics Research Project, please click on this link http://sbgenetics.org/enrollment.html and select ‘Click here to ENROLL’. The website and survey are available in both English and Spanish. The study will only be open until July so it is important to participate today!

Upon completion, participants may choose to receive a $10 gift card or we will donate $10 to a spina bifida organization of your choice.
The Spina Bifida Genetics Research Project includes scientists from UC Berkeley, Stanford University, UC San Francisco, Children’s Hospital Oakland Research Institute and VitaPath Genetics.