FETUB
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)
Description
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) are a group of conditions that can occur in individuals who were exposed to alcohol during pregnancy. These disorders can range in severity, from mild to severe, and can affect a wide range of physical, cognitive, and behavioral development.
The most common type of FASD is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), which is characterized by:
- Facial abnormalities (e.g., small eyes, thin upper lip)
- Growth retardation
- Central nervous system impairment (e.g., intellectual disability, learning difficulties)
Other types of FASD include:
- Partial Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (PFAS): Similar to FAS but with fewer or less severe facial abnormalities
- Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (ARND): Cognitive and behavioral impairments without facial abnormalities
- Alcohol-Related Birth Defects (ARBD): Physical birth defects not meeting the criteria for FAS
Associated Diseases
FASD can be associated with a number of health problems, including:
- Intellectual disability
- Learning difficulties
- Behavior problems (e.g., hyperactivity, impulsivity)
- Speech and language delays
- Vision and hearing problems
- Cardiac and other organ defects
- Mental health issues (e.g., depression, anxiety)
Did you Know ?
- According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in every 50 live births in the United States is affected by FASD.
