Alcohol-related birth defects

Alcohol-related birth defects (ARBD) are physical and mental impairments that result from prenatal exposure to alcohol. These defects can include a wide range of physical, behavioral, and learning problems. The most severe form of ARBD is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), which is characterized by growth deficiencies, central nervous system impairment, and specific facial features.

Causes

ARBD are caused by maternal consumption of alcohol during pregnancy. When a pregnant woman drinks alcohol, it passes through the placenta to the fetus. Because the fetus's liver is not fully developed, it cannot metabolize the alcohol as efficiently as an adult's liver can, leading to high levels of alcohol in the fetus's blood. This can interfere with the delivery of oxygen and optimal nutrition to the developing tissues and organs, including the brain.

Types of Alcohol-Related Birth Defects

There are several types of ARBD, including:

• Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS): This is the most severe form of ARBD. It is characterized by abnormal facial features, growth deficiencies, and central nervous system problems.

• Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (ARND): Children with ARND may have intellectual disabilities and problems with behavior and learning. They may do poorly in school and have difficulties with math, memory, attention, judgment, and poor impulse control.

• Alcohol-Related Birth Defects (ARBD): Children with ARBD may have problems with the heart, kidneys, or bones or with hearing. They may have a mix of these.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ARBD is based on evidence of prenatal alcohol exposure, physical abnormalities, a pattern of characteristic facial features, growth retardation, and evidence of central nervous system abnormalities.

Prevention

The only sure way to prevent ARBD is for a woman to abstain from alcohol during pregnancy. If a woman is trying to get pregnant, she should stop drinking as soon as she stops using birth control.

Treatment

There is no cure for ARBD, but early intervention services can help improve a child's development. These services may include speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and special education classes.

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