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October Is National Spina Bifida Awareness Month

Publication Date: Tuesday, October 28, 2008

LITTLE ROCK, AR. (Oct. 27, 2008) – Dozens of children and adults in Arkansas face the every day realities of spina bifida, but the rest of the state’s population knows little about this birth defect. October is the perfect time to learn more, as the Spina Bifida Association (SBA) celebrates National Spina Bifida Awareness Month.

The goal of the awareness month is to highlight the occurrence of the birth defect, bring to light the struggles and successes of those who live with it, and offer recommendations to decrease the chances of having a baby affected by Spina Bifida.

Through public awareness comes understanding and support of the SBA’s mission to promote the prevention of Spina Bifida and to enhance the lives of all affected. Throughout the year, and especially in October, SBA implements key programs and services to support its mission.

The New Folic Acid Pocket Card is just one example. This quick reference card fits in the white coat pocket for outreach from health professionals. This card includes information on folic acid and recurrence prevention. A version for healthcare professionals in English and a version for community educators/promotoras in Spanish are available.

To order, visit SBA’s marketplace via the organization’s Web site at http://www.spinabifidaassociation.org/

Arkansas Children’s Hospital is the only pediatric medical center in Arkansas and one of the largest in the United States serving children from birth to age 21. The campus spans 28 city blocks and houses 316 beds, a staff of approximately 500 physicians, 80 residents in pediatrics and pediatric specialties and more than 4,000 employees.The private, nonprofit healthcare facility boasts an internationally renowned reputation for medical breakthroughs and intensive treatments, unique surgical procedures and forward-thinking medical research - all dedicated to fulfilling our mission of enhancing, sustaining and restoring children's health and development. ACH recently ranked No. 76 on FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For®. For more information, visit www.archildrens.org.

ACHRI provides a research environment on the ACH campus to meet the needs of the UAMS faculty. Research scientists at ACHRI conduct clinical, basic science, and health services research for the purpose of treating illnesses, preventing disease and improving the health of children everywhere.

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