Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) is caused by drinking during pregnancy. This condition in an individual may vary from person to person and can include intellectual disability, poor coordination, abnormal facial features, hyperactive behavior, difficulty with attention and memory, among other difficulties. 

There are multiple classifications under FASD. Among disorders classified under FASD, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is the most severe condition under FASD. Current research indicates that 0.3 in every 1000 children from age 7 to 9 have FAS. 

Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (ARND) may cause intellectual disabilities and difficulties with learning, memory, impulsivity, among other difficulties. 

Alcohol-Related Birth Defects (ARBD) may cause problems with the heart, kidneys, bones, and/or hearing. 

Neurobehavioral- Disorder Associated with Prenatal Alcohol Exposure (ND-PAE) is defined by the mother drinking more than 13 drinks a month during pregnancy. Complications with this condition include memory, behavioral and mood issues, difficulty with day to day living. ND-PAE was added to the DSM-5 for the first time, upon the DSM’s latest release in 2013. 

Myths

Myth 1: it’s okay to drink a little alcohol while pregnant.

This is never the case, as women who are pregnant or expecting pregnancy should never consume ANY alcohol. 

Myth 2: FASD is only an intellectual disability. 

FASD can affect an individual's height, weight, facial structure, coordination, etc. as well as intellectual disability. 

Myth 3: FASD always means low IQ.

While many individuals with FASD will have a low IQ, there are also many individuals with FASD that will have other symptoms not including low IQ. It varies individual to individual. 

It’s estimated that 1-5% of first graders have FASD. This condition can only occur if a child is exposed to alcohol before birth. An early diagnosis of FASD is critical for newborn infants with the condition. It is often misdiagnosed due to the lack of information about prenatal alcohol exposure by an individual’s mother. 

With all being said, it’s important to include that with the right supports, including special education, among other resources available, that individuals with any form of FASD have the ability to succeed.