Fetal+Alcohol+Spectrum

Prenatal exposure to alcohol can cause a range of disorders, known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs). One of the most severe effects of drinking during pregnancy is fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). FAS is one of the leading known preventable causes of mental retardation and birth defects. If a woman drinks alcohol during her pregnancy, her baby can be born with FAS, a lifelong condition that causes physical and mental disabilities. FAS is characterized by abnormal facial features, growth deficiencies, and central nervous system (CNS) problems.
 * People with FAS might have problems with learning, memory, attention span, communication, vision, hearing, or a combination of these. These problems often lead to difficulties in school and problems getting along with others. FAS is a permanent condition. It affects every aspect of an individual’s life and the lives of his or her family*****

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) is an umbrella term describing the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother drank alcohol during pregnancy. These effects include physical, mental, behavioral, and/or learning disabilities with possible lifelong implications. The term FASDs is not intended for use as a clinical diagnosis. [|This site gives guidelines for identifying and monitoring fetal alcohol syndrome][|Fetal Alcohol Syndrome]

[|Kids Health] This site provides information on signs and symptoms of FAS. It also discusses diagnosis and long term effects on alcohol on the infant. [|FAS Link] [|FASCRC Link]

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fetal-alcohol-syndrome/DS00184 Mayo Clinic site gives information about symptoms and signs.

http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/fas/fasask.htm This site gives information on what FAS is and how to prevent it.