Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a group of birth defects that occur in a fetus when a pregnant woman drinks alcohol during pregnancy. It is a leading cause of preventable birth defects and developmental disabilities.

Causes and Risk Factors

FAS is caused by the exposure of the fetus to alcohol during pregnancy, which can disrupt normal fetal development. The risk factors for FAS include:

• Maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy
• Binge drinking or heavy drinking during pregnancy
• Poor prenatal care
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Genetic predisposition

Symptoms and Characteristics

Children with FAS may exhibit a range of physical, behavioral, and cognitive symptoms, including:

• Growth deficits, such as low birth weight or short stature
• Facial abnormalities, such as small eyes, thin upper lip, or smooth philtrum
• Central nervous system problems, such as seizures or tremors
• Developmental delays or intellectual disability
• Behavioral problems, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or conduct disorder
• Learning disabilities or difficulties with memory and problem-solving

Diagnosis and Evaluation

The diagnosis of FAS is based on a combination of physical examination, medical history, and behavioral assessments. The evaluation may include:

• Physical examination to assess growth and facial features
• Neurological examination to assess central nervous system function
• Psychological and behavioral assessments to evaluate cognitive and behavioral functioning
• Review of prenatal history to confirm maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy

Treatment and Management

While there is no cure for FAS, early intervention and treatment can help improve outcomes. The management of FAS may include:

• Medical treatment to address related health problems, such as seizures or growth deficits
• Behavioral therapy to address behavioral problems, such as ADHD or conduct disorder
• Special education and support services to address learning disabilities and cognitive impairments
• Family counseling and support to help families cope with the challenges of FAS

Prevention

The best way to prevent FAS is for pregnant women to abstain from alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Women who are planning to become pregnant or who are already pregnant should:

• Avoid drinking alcohol altogether
• Seek prenatal care early and regularly
• Follow a healthy diet and lifestyle
• Discuss any concerns about alcohol consumption with their healthcare provider