Screening for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

To help children with alcohol-related birth defects, a screening and diagnostic service is being set up by The Children's Hospital at Westmead in Australia. This outfit should be operational by the end of 2011.

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) is present in babies who have been exposed to alcohol consumed by their mothers during pregnancy. This can result in many neuro-developmental disorders in babies born to such mothers.

A facility of this type which can screen and diagnose FASD can help its many victims suffering problems with coordination, memory, learning and communication.

It is important to spread the message among pregnant women that consumption of alcohol during pregnancy can lead to a life of disability for their children and it is wise to give-up drinking during pregnancy.



Source: Medindia