Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders: Characteristics, Complications, and Treatment

Community Ment Health J. 2017 Aug;53(6):711-718. doi: 10.1007/s10597-017-0104-0. Epub 2017 Feb 6.

Abstract

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) includes a continuum of disorders that occur in children as a result of their mothers' consumption of alcohol during pregnancy. The most severe of these disorders is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS). FASD presents differently in every child, but all children with FASD have intellectual and/or behavioral impairments. There is no cure for FASD, but research shows that early intervention and life-long support help those born with FASD to manage the difficulties that come with it. This paper examines the characteristics, complications, and treatment for FASD.

Keywords: Addictions; Counseling; Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD); Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS).

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders / prevention & control
  • Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders / psychology
  • Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders / therapy
  • Foster Home Care
  • Humans