What is it?

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), is a series of disabilities in a baby, caused

by the mothers consumption of alcohol during the pregnancy period. The fetus
expose to alcohol is actually greater than the mother, due to the slower ability
to break down alcohol. When the alcohol is passed on to the fetus, it damages
the developing cells, causing permanent damage to organs and parts of the
body, especially to the brain and central nervous system. Three main physical
effects of FAS are central nervous system deficiencies, a particular pattern of
facial features, and slower than average growth. If a child does not show all
three physical conditions, then they are said to have FAE (Fetal Alcohol
Effects).

Some Stats on FAS:
- FAS occurs in about 1 of every 500 to 3,000 live births each year.
- In Canada, about 15% of women use alcohol during pregnancy.
- It is estimated that about 1,000 babies will be born with FAE each year.

Immediate (Physical) Effects of FAS
- Birth weight lessened, small body size
- Head is small
- Small brain, faulty arrangement of brain cells
- Abnormal position and function of joints
- Heart defects (leads to heart murmurs)
- Kidney/urinary defects
- Genital malformations
- Facial features abnormal

Long term (emotional, developmental) Effects of FAS
- Irritable during infant stage, hyperactive during older years
- Retardation of longitudinal growth in infant years
- Permanent growth lag
- Weak grasp
- Poor hand-eye coordination
- Short memories
- Diminished intelligence (average IQ in 60s)
- Mental retardation (mild to moderate, rarely severe)
-learning disabilities
-Short attention span
Myths and facts about FAS
Myth #1: People with FAS suffer from mental retardation

Fact: Some people with FAS are mentally retarded and some are not. Some
people with FAS may even have above average intelligence. While there is
injury to the brain, each affected person will have areas of strengths and
weaknesses.

Myth #2: Children affected by FAS will eventually grow out of it as they age.

Fact: Unfortunately, victims of FAS will not grow out of FAS because it lasts a
life time. However the symptoms of FAS may change with age.

Myth #3: The problem of FAS can be solved with existing research knowledge
Fact: Research is needed on all aspects of FAS epidemiology
(a study of the incidence of the disease) , prevention, early intervention, and
treatment.

Effect on self, family and community
Fetal alcohol syndrome could have a huge impact on ones life as well as
for the community. Raising a child with FAS would be extremely difficult
because of their mental injuries. Especially for teen parents who are not ready
to take care of even a regular child. In addition, victims of FAS are likely to
require special equipment or care. As a result, local schools would have to
invest in specially trained teachers as well as purchasing that special
equipment. Most importantly, FAS will impact the victims the most because
they are imprisoned by the deficiencies and will not be able to live a normal life.

Prevention

Fortunately, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is one of the foremost preventable of
all birth defects. The answer is simple, stop drinking. The sooner you quit, the
better it is for the baby. Dont consider having a child until the mothers drinking
problems are under control. Family or friends of the mother should encourage
her to think about what it best for the child. If FAS is suspected on a child, it is
crucial to contact a doctor right away. Early detection and intervention can
make a significant difference in how your child copes with FAS throughout
his/her life.