Folate and vitamin B 12 status in a representative sample of Irish adults

Abstract

Introduction: n addition to the role of folate in the prevention of neural tube defects, an optimal folate and vitamin B12 status may be protective against cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, cognitive decline and osteoporosis. Objective(s): The aim of this study was to assess folate and vitamin B12 status in a representative sample of Irish adults. Method/Design: Participants who provided a blood sample during the National Adult Nutrition Survey were included (n = 1064). Red cell folate (RCF), serum folate and serum vitamin B12 were measured by microbiological assay. Result(s): Mean concentrations of all biomarkers were within normal ranges for all subgroups .Of the total population, 6% had a deficient or borderline RCF level (< 453nmol/l) and this was most common among women of child bearing age (10%). Only 1.1% of the population had a borderline deficiency of serum folate (< 6.8nmol/l); however, high levels (> 45.3nmol/) were detected in 18% of the total population and in 23% of men and women aged >= 65yrs. Deficient or borderline serum vitamin B12 levels (< 148pmol/l), present in 6% of the total population, were highest among men and women aged 51-64 yrs (9%). Conclusion(s): These findings indicate that the majority of the Irish adult population have an adequate folate and vitamin B12 status. However, this work has highlighted some subgroups of concern including young women and older adults.