Final answer:
Folate deficiency anemia during pregnancy is linked to neural tube defects like spina bifida and anencephaly, which affect the brain and spinal cord development in the fetus.
Step-by-step explanation:
Folate deficiency anemia during pregnancy is associated with several types of birth defects, most notably neural tube defects (NTDs). The neural tube is the precursor to the central nervous system, which comprises the brain and spinal cord. A deficiency of maternal folate, particularly during the first weeks of pregnancy, can lead to serious neural tube defects. The two primary types of neural tube defects associated with folate deficiency are spina bifida and anencephaly. Spina bifida occurs when spinal tissue protrudes through an incomplete closure of the vertebral column. Anencephaly is a more severe condition characterized by the partial or complete absence of brain tissue.
Therefore, when considering the options given A) Neural Tube Defects, B) Cardiovascular Anomalies, C) Limb Deformities, and D) Renal Malformations, the correct defect that can be caused to the baby by folate deficiency anemia is A) Neural Tube Defects.