What is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)?

FAS is a cluster of four characteristics found in the offspring of mothers who drank during pregnancy, namely;

• central nervous system dysfunction,
• abnormal facial features,
• behavioral deficits, and
• growth deficiency.

FAS affects up to 9.1 of every 1000 babies born. Triple that with heavy drinkers.

Common cognitive and behavioral problems in children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder are.

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Inability to foresee consequences
• Inability to learn from previous experience
• Inappropriate or immature Behaviour
• Lack of organization
• Learning difficulties
• Poor abstract thinking
• Poor adaptability
• Poor impulse control
• Poor judgment
• Speech, language and other communication problems
• Secondary disabilities associated with FAS
• Mental health problems 90%
• Dependent living 80%
• Employment problems 80%
• Disruptive school experience 60%
• Trouble with law 60%
• Confinement 50%
• Inappropriate sexual Behaviour 50%
• Alcohol or drug problems 30%

FAS is 100% preventable by avoiding alcohol whilst pregnant.

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