Folate Deficiency Threshold Assessment

Assess folate status using serum and RBC folate measurements. Deficient: serum folate below 2.0 ng/mL, RBC folate below 140 ng/mL. Borderline: serum folate 2.0-3.0 ng/mL. RBC folate better reflects tissue stores. Causes: poor dietary intake, alcohol, malabsorption (celiac), medications (methotrexate, trimethoprim, phenytoin, sulfasalazine), pregnancy (increased demand).

Weight
Height
Clinical Guidance

BMI is a screening measure of body size, not a direct measure of body fat. The standard WHO categories are underweight (<18.5), normal (18.5–24.9), overweight (25–29.9), and obese (≥30).

BMI can overestimate body fat in athletes with high muscle mass and underestimate it in older adults with low muscle mass. Interpret it alongside waist circumference and clinical context rather than as a standalone diagnosis.

⚕ Clinical Disclaimer: These calculators are for educational and reference purposes only. Always verify results with qualified clinical judgment and current clinical guidelines. Do not use as a sole basis for medical decisions.
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How It Works

Assess folate status using serum and RBC folate measurements. Deficient: serum folate below 2.0 ng/mL, RBC folate below 140 ng/mL. Borderline: serum folate 2.0-3.0 ng/mL. RBC folate better reflects tissue stores. Causes: poor dietary intake, alcohol, malabsorption (celiac), medications (methotrexate, trimethoprim, phenytoin, sulfasalazine), pregnancy (increased demand)

Each component has a specific meaning:

  • Serum — The serum recorded for the scenario being assessed.
  • RBC folate measurements — The rbc folate measurements recorded for the scenario being assessed.

Note: Interpret the folate deficiency result against the thresholds and context described above.

How to Use

Enter the serum, RBC folate measurements for the scenario you are assessing. Assess folate status using serum and RBC folate measurements. Deficient: serum folate below 2.0 ng/mL, RBC folate below 140 ng/mL. Borderline: serum folate 2.0-3.0 ng/mL. RBC folate better reflects tissue stores. Causes: poor dietary intake, alcohol, malabsorption (celiac), medications (methotrexate, trimethoprim, phenytoin, sulfasalazine), pregnancy (increased demand). Use the folate deficiency result to inform your calculation.

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Frequently Asked Questions