An increase in spina bifida cases in Tunisia, 2008–2011

The term spina bifida refers to a group of neural tube defects that result in malformations of the spinal cord and the surrounding vertebrae. Though the etiologies of spina bifida remain largely unknown, several risk factors have been identified, including feto-maternal characteristics. To discover possible underlying reasons for the increase of spina bifida and identify intervention targets, an investigation was undertaken comparing spina...