Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to inform the House and all Canadians that June is National Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Awareness Month in Canada.
Spina bifida is a neurological malformation that occurs during the first four weeks following fertilization. This disease permanently damages nerves to various degrees, thus causing paralysis. In Canada, it is estimated that one out of every 750 newborn is affected.
Hydrocephalus, which affects the majority of spina bifida victims, is caused by an excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. This disease can be treated through surgery. However, if left untreated, it may cause permanent damage to the brain and even result in death.
This year, the association is urging Canadian women who could get pregnant to add folic acid to their daily food intake. There is evidence that folic acid reduces by up to 75% the risk of giving birth to a child affected by this disease.