spina bifida, is one of those genetic defects that seems to have an "an affinity" for certain ethnic/racial groups, and it is much more common in Northern europeans, specifically, irish, english, german, dutch, and scandinavian heritage.

there is some evidence that the same virus that caused the potato failure, can cause genetic damage in humans, that leads to increased spina bifida (but i don't think was proven)-- and certainly the groups most effected tend to be 'potato eaters'- both in europe & US

there is now an inutero test for SB, and two things happen, one, when SB is detected, the pregnancy is terminated, or there is also a inutrero operation that can graft skin into the area, and reduce the major problems associated with spina bifida.

One problems that SB causes, is beacuse of the open end of the spinal cord, there is a causes lose of spinal fluid, and presure, which results in the brain slidding too far back in the skull, (and moving into spinal cord space in effect, not remaining fully in the skull)this movement of the brain causes other problems.

the surgery prevents this, and reduces some the other nerve damage that occurs (by providing at least a covering of skin for spinal cord). later surgeries can further reduce the damage, so that many children born with the defect today, don't have mis-shaped skulls, don't need shunts (the brain moving into the spinal space collapes ducts for spinal fluid, so external shunts were needed) have much less brain damage(often none), and less spinal cord damage, so the few children that are born with the condition are pretty normal looking, and often have 80 to 95% fuction of the their lower limbs. in the "worst cases" with the in utero surgeries, they kids usually still end up being able to walk, (with braces and crutches) their life expectancy is also improved.

I exect you hear less, because there are fewer ethinic groups with a history of potato eating members in your area, and testing and early treatment has resulted in few births with the defect, or noticable effects of the defect.


my other obsession