Every year in India > 25000- 50000 (estimated prevalence) children are born with Spina Bifida (Birth defect).

Spina Bifida is a Birth defect where the spinal cord fails to develop properly. In medical terms, it is a type of a Neural Tube Defect (NTD). 

Spina Bifida can cause: 

1. Childhood paralysis -worse than Polio!

2. Hydrocephalus (Water in brain)

3. Urine and Bowel incontinence

4. Curved spine (scoliosis)

5. Club foot

6. Other issues

Severity depends on the size and location of the neural tube defect and whether skin covers the affected area.

The Spina Bifida Foundation works for the prevention/awareness of Spina Bifida (NTDs) and rehabilitates children/individuals who are born with Spina Bifida. 

The Spina Bifida Foundation’s work started in 2006 and it was officially registered as a charitable organization in 2009.

Children with Spina Bifida, have to undergo various surgeries and long-term rehabilitation is required. 

But the silver lining of the dark cloud is, is that all Spina Bifida individuals who get proper & timely medical treatment will have normal mental development and IQs and can lead independent & socially productive lives.

However, in India, only a few fortunate ones, get timely and proper treatment. 

Thus, an important focus of the Foundation is to facilitate/fund the treatment of SB individuals.

 Spina Bifida can be prevented by a simple Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) supplement is taken by women. However, there is a complete lack of awareness regarding this in India. The government needs to start a National Awareness Campaign for SB Awareness and Prevention. The Foundation is pursuing this. 

I appeal for your support to the Foundation for this important Public Health cause, which can make a big difference in the lives of thousands of Spina Bifida individuals and families.