Failures in reproductive health policy: overcoming the consequences and causes of inaction. (18th August 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sher, Jonathan; Frank, John W; Doi, Lawrence; de Caestecker, Linda
• Is Part Of: Journal of public health. Volume 41:Number 2(2019:Jun.)
• Page Start: e209
• Page End: e215
• Publication Date: 2018-08-18
• Subjects: evidence-based policy -- fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) -- folic acid -- preconception health -- (public) health policy -- pregnancy -- prevention of birth defects -- reproductive health -- valproate; Public health -- Periodicals; Public health -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; Medical policy -- Periodicals; Medical policy -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 362.1
• DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdy131
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1741-3842

Abstract

Abstract: It is assumed that long-established research findings and internationally accepted evidence should, and will, be translated into policy and practice. Knowledge about what prevents harm and promotes health has, in fact, guided and resulted in numerous beneficial public health actions. However, such is not always the case. The authors examine three notable, and unwelcome, exceptions in the UK—all in the field of reproductive health and all focused on the period prior to pregnancy. The three examples of counterproductive inaction discussed are: fortifying flour with Vitamin B9 (folic acid); preventing foetal alcohol spectrum disorders; and reducing risks and better regulating a highly teratogenic medication (valproate). The adverse consequences, as well as the causes, of inaction are analysed for each example. Reasons for optimism, and recommendations for overcoming inaction, are also offered, in particular, greater priority should be accorded to preconception health, education and care.