Method for Folate Deficiency Screening

1 Scope

This standard specifies the indicators,values,and measurement methods for folate deficiency and insufficiency screening in the people.

This standard is applicable to the determination of the folate nutritional status in the people.

2 Normative references

The following documents are essential for the application of this document.For the references dated,only their dated versions are applies to this document;for the references undated,their latest versions,including all amendments,are applicable to this document.

WS/T 225 Collection and processing of blood samples for clinical chemical testing

3 Terms and definitions

The following terms and definitions apply to this document.

3.1 Folate deficiency

Folate deficiency can be determined when the folate content in serum (or plasma) or red blood cells is lower than the reference values for the normal people.

3.2 Folate insufficiency for women of reproductive age

Folate insufficiency can be determined when the average values of folate content in red blood cells for women of reproductive age is lower than the reference values set for preventing neural tube defects.

4 Determination indicators and values for folate deficiency and insufficiency screening in the people

4.1 Determination of folate insufficiency for women of reproductive age

Table 1. Determination of folate insufficiency for women of reproductive age

4.2 Determination of folate deficiency in other people

Table 2. Determination of folate deficiency in other people

5 Measurement methods

5.1 Folate content in serum (or plasma)

Follow the methods specified in Appendix A.

5.2 Folate content in red blood cells

Follow the methods specified in Appendix B.