Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: Implications for Health Education

Shaping the future for children with foetal alcohol spectrum disorders

“…Although a safe level of alcohol consumption during pregnancy has not been established (Gray and Henderson, 2006; BMA, 2007), it is clear that alcohol consumed in pregnancy can result in primary and secondary disabilities that are preventable (Warren and Blast, 1988) and that persist into adulthood (Hawks, 1993). The stage of pregnancy at which the foetus is exposed to alcohol is an important factor in considering potential harm (O'Malley, 2007).…”

Raising a FAS/FAE Child: Helping Carers Cope

“…The prevalence rate for the foetal alcohol syndrome varies from country to country and amongst groups (Phillipson, 1988;Hawks, 1993). It has been reported in people of all racial identities.…”

“…Some like to sit inside a large box, cubby house or cover themselves with a blanket and just sit in the quiet darkness. Hayne (1993( , as cited in Wegmann, 1995 has suggested a "serenity lane" walking area to allow physical release through walking and given a degree of solitude. Some parents have found that sleeping bags (cosy "mummy bags") have been successful.…”

“…It is now almost 30 years since the accumulated body of evidence suggested that alcohol is a teratogen (Jones &C Smith, 1973) and is now recognised as the leading teratogenic agent in long lasting central nervous system dysfunction, surpassing trisomy 21 and spina bifida as a major cause of mental retardation (Spohr, Willms & Steinhausen, 1994). Furthermore, it is an ailment that is easily preventable (Warren & Bast, 1988) and one that persists into adulthood (Hawks, 1993).…”