Neural tube defect among newborns in public hospitals of Tigray region, northern Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study

The prevalence of neural tube defects is comparatively high among newborns born in Tigray's public hospitals as compared to previous studies. Residing in rural areas, folic acid supplementation before and during pregnancy, having no medical illnesses during pregnancy, poor food consumption scores, and alcohol consumption during pregnancy were the determinants for neural tube defects. Preventive strategies, such as periconceptional folic acid supplementation, folate fortification, promoting healthy dietary practices, avoiding alcohol consumption, early maternal screening, and treatment of medical illnesses, are essential at both regional and national levels.