Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) stands as a critical medical and public health issue that forms part of the broader category known as Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). These conditions result from prenatal alcohol exposure and carry long-term implications for the affected individual. FAS is characterized by a variety of physical, cognitive, and behavioural challenges that manifest due to alcohol’s teratogenic effects during pregnancy. According to the comprehensive overview provided by Vorgias et al., FAS results in permanent and irreversible damage to the central nervous system (CNS). Although it is well established that high levels of alcohol intake lead to more severe FASD outcomes, no definitive study has identified a safe threshold for alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
Alcohol exposure during pregnancy leads to developmental complications in various stages. The damage caused by alcohol in the first trimester often results in facial anomalies and brain defects, while exposure in the second and third trimesters is linked to growth deficits, including smaller brain volumes. The severity of these conditions varies, but the underlying cause remains the same: alcohol consumption during pregnancy is the only preventable cause of FASD.
Despite ongoing efforts to raise awareness, FASD continues to affect children worldwide, with recent studies showing its prevalence to be higher than previously reported. Countries like South Africa report particularly high rates of FASD, attributed to socio-economic factors and lack of sufficient prevention efforts. Treatment strategies remain focused on symptom management as no cure exists. FASD’s wide-ranging effects on child development underscore the importance of early intervention, increased awareness, and multi-disciplinary efforts in both prevention and treatment.
Journal article: Vorgias, D., et al., 2023. Foetal Alcohol Syndrome. StatPearls Publishing.
Summary by Faith Oluwamakinde
Cover image source: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15677-fetal-alcohol-syndrome