Deficiency aftermath! The most common symptom of severe folate deficiency is anemia. Mild folate deficiency in pregnant women is associated with an increased risk of spina bifida (a form of birth defect) in the child. High blood levels of homocysteine can damage the inner surface of blood vessels, promote blood clotting, accelerate atherosclerosis, and thus lead to heart attacks and strokes. Published on Feb 04, 2016Last Updated on Feb 04, 2016