FOLIC ACID USE DURING PREGNANCY: AN ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE AMONG PEOPLE IN ANANINDEUA, PARÁ

Abstract

This article aimed to evaluate the perception and knowledge of the population regarding the use of folic acid during pregnancy in the municipality of Ananindeua, Pará, through a random, cross-sectional, and quantitative opinion survey conducted with passersby in a public square in the municipality of Ananindeua. The data were tabulated in Microsoft Excel Windows 11 and statistically evaluated using the Likelihood Ratio Test (G-test), assessing the correlation between variables, with probability of significance (p-value) and df (degrees of freedom). Results: Among the data obtained, the majority of individuals were female 64.6% (n=248), 23.4% (n=90) belonged to the age range between 36 and 41 years, 27.9% (n=107) had completed high school, and 45.6% (n=175) had a family income between 1 and 2 minimum wages. The statistical variables show high correlation rates, with the exception of the age range variable and the importance and duration of folic acid use. 48.4% (n=186) of the people who participated in the opinion survey showed knowledge that folic acid is a supplement, 70% (n=269) considered folic acid supplementation important during pregnancy, and only 14.6% (n=56) knew the correct duration of vitamin intake, as recommended by the Ministry of Health. The opinion survey revealed insufficient knowledge among the participants. Healthcare professionals are indispensable in guiding the use of folic acid, with pharmacists playing a key role in assisting with guidance and clarifying doubts regarding supplementation and disease prevention during pregnancy. Pharmacists have a fundamental role in health education, providing information about the correct use of folic acid, increasing treatment adherence rates, knowledge, and quality of life.