Who gets Spina Bifida?
Spina Bifida occurs in 7 out of every 10,000 live births in the United States. It is estimated that approximately 70,000 people in the United States have Spina Bifida. Spina Bifida occurs more frequently in females and more often in Hispanic populations. An exact cause is not clearly understood, however there are a few risk factors, including: A previous pregnancy in which the fetus had a neural tube defect Insulin-dependant diabetes The use of certain medications (particularly for seizures) Obesity High temperatures in early pregnancy (due to fever or use of a hot tub) How is Spina Bifida treated? Unfortunately, because nerve tissue cannot be replaced or repaired, there is no cure for Spina Bifida. Infants with myelomeningocele usually require surgery within the first 24 hours of life to close the opening in the spine and reduce the risk of infection. These children may also need subsequent surgeries to correct deformities. In milder cases of Spina Bifida, such as meningocele, the cys
