. Folic acid/Folate (vitamin B9) is crucial for red blood cell production and DNA synthesis.
. This test is primarily used to diagnose folate deficiency, which can lead to megaloblastic anemia and neural tube defects or anencephaly during pregnancy. It also helps monitor folic acid levels in individuals requiring supplementation, such as pregnant women or those with malabsorption conditions like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease.