Earlier this month, the Neuroscience20 or N20 Summit, held along with the G20 meeting of global leaders, was held in Bali. The neurologists grouping from the G20 countries sought out directives to mandate fortifying staple foods like cereals or salt with folic acid to reduce the prevalence and deaths from Spina Bifida-F, a spinal birth defect.

The N20 group was set up as part of an initiative by former US President, Mr. Barrack Obama, to give input to world leaders about the cost of the neurological, spine, and mental disorders. Back then, he stated that neurological diseases have a significant impact on the world economy due to their chronic and life-threatening nature.

Dr. Sandip Chatterjee, president of the Indian Society of Paediatric Neurosurgery, stated that eight countries, including the UK and the US, have already ordered the mandatory fortification of staples with folic acid. He explained that several studies have indicated that 80% of spina bifida cases can be prevented if women of childbearing age are given folic acid supplements at the WHO-recommended dosages. 

(Source: https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/health/g20-neurologists-want-mandatory-folic-supplements-for-women-to-check-spinal-defects-at-birth-455958 )