Factors associated with intention of Israeli-born women and immigrant women from the Former Soviet Union to take folic acid before and during pregnancy

Aim: Folic acid supplementation before and during pregnancy decreases rates of neural tube defects. However, many women fail to adhere to folic acid supplementation recommendations. This study explored factors associated with women's intention to take folic acid before and during pregnancy, using the Theory of Planned Behaviour, with an emphasis on differences between Israeli-born women and immigrant women from the Former Soviet Union. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 100 Israeli born-women and 100 women from the Former Soviet Union of childbearing age completed a questionnaire, based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour. Results: The findings indicated a significant difference in the rates at which Israeli-born and FSU-born women took folic acid before and during pregnancy, as well as a significant difference in their intention to take folic acid supplementation in future pregnancies. The theoretical model explained 88.7% of variance in women's intention to take folic acid, with the most influential variable being behavioural attitudes towards taking folic acid. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the need to increase knowledge and change attitudes and beliefs about folic acid supplementation among women and their significant others, as well as the importance of cultural, language, and economic barriers when treating Former Soviet Union immigrant populations.