fetal alcohol syndrome essay

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: Causes and Consequences Essay

Introduction, causes of fetal alcohol syndrome, effects of fetus alcohol syndrome on the born child.

In many countries of the world alcohol and dug abuse during pregnancy has been one of the major threats to child health and welfare. Although this fact is well known across many social divides, many expectant mothers across the globe still indulge in excessive drinking of alcohol during pregnancy. These women do this without knowledge that their unsuspecting unborn babies can develop a disorder known as fetal alcohol syndrome after birth (Hans-Ludwig, p. 13).

Fetal alcohol syndrome is a disorder which causes lasting birth defects in a newborn baby. It is associated with expectant mothers who overdrink alcohol during pregnancy. Scientists have not yet found out, if the volume of alcohol taken, the frequency of taking, or the time the alcohol is taken during pregnancy, is connected to a variation in the degree of injury done to the unborn baby. Hence it is advised that expectant mothers should completely abstain from the habit of drinking (Elizabeth, p. 8).

The main cause of fetal alcohol syndrome is the abuse of alcohol during pregnancy by pregnant mothers. When an expectant woman drinks alcohol it easily penetrates the placenta into the fetus body. Any amount of alcohol she drinks potentially exposes the unborn baby to definite risk of contracting fetal alcohol syndrome. Heavy drinking of alcohol can predispose the fetus to the disorder more than small doses of alcohol. The timing of alcohol consumption is also a very vital aspect in preventing the possibilities of an infant developing the disorder, since alcohol consumption in the first three month of pregnancy offers more risk to the infant than the following period of pregnancy. Although drinking alcohol at any other time can still predispose fetal alcohol syndrome. The primary disabilities an infant suffers from after birth as a result of fetal alcohol syndrome is usually caused by the central system damage damages before birth which had resulted from prenatal alcohol exposure. Most commonly the resultant primary disabilities in the newborn babies are usually confused with a child having behavioral problems although the central nervous distortion is the underlying cause of this problem. The functional disabilities which are the main feature in fetal alcoholism syndrome are caused by the central nervous system damages which occur in more than one way. The damage to the CNS by alcohol is still under research to establish the mechanism in which this phenomenon occurs (Hans-Ludwig, p. 3).

The effects of ethanol on the fetus might be determined by the amount consumed by the pregnant mother and the time during pregnancy the alcohol was consumed. As mentioned earlier the first three month of pregnancy is more crucial as far as this disorder is concerned. The effect of Fetal alcohol syndrome varies from one child to the next, depending on a variety of factors such as, the amount of alcohol consumed by the mother during pregnancy and the physiological condition of the mother and the fetus before birth. One of the effects of Fetal alcohol syndrome includes development of a characteristic facial appearance, which always consists of small upturned nose, sagging eyelids, emaciated upper lip, inflamed forehead and thin chin. The children having this syndrome are usually characteristically thin and short in stature.

Babies suffering from fetal alcohol syndrome normally develop physical difficulties and deformities such as hearing difficulties, dental disfiguration, coronary problems, kidney problems, muscles and joint problems. There is also a manifestation of central nervous system problems such as affecting the cognitive and adaptive function ability of a child.

Fetal alcohol syndrome is one of the major causes of psychological retardation in children in the modern world. Hence sensitization and education of pregnant women about the cause, effects and prevention of fetal alcohol syndrome is imperative.

• Hans-Ludwig Spohr, Hans-Christoph, Alcohol: Pregnancy and the Developing Child, Cambridge University Press, 1996.
• Elizabeth M. A., Pregnancy Risk: Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and the Diagnosis of Moral Disorder, JHU Press, 2003.
• Childbirth. Three Stages of Labor
• Causes and Prevention of Infertility in Men
• Teratogens, Its Effects and Types
• Maternal Serum and Down Syndrome
• The Use of Alcohol During Pregnancy
• Labor Naturally vs. Induction of Labor Delivery Plan
• Test Tube Babies: Medical Analysis
• Home Birth: Pros and Cons
• Birth Control for Teenagers
• The Birth Control: Safe Methods
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

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• Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Essays

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Essays (Examples)

Filter by keywords:(add comma between each), example essays.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is one of the most common and devastating birth abnormalities among American children. This paper will provide an in-depth look at FAS, using four reliable sources as a basis of this analysis. The sources used are Streissguth, Jacobson & Jacobson, the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDDD), and National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (NOFAS). The information obtained from these sources will be compared with the textbook Infants and Children Prenatal Through Middle Childhood (Berk, 2001). FAS is a combination of birth defects that is associated with consuming alcohol during pregnancy. It is the leading cause of mental retardation and birth defects, and is entirely preventable. About 12,000 infants are born every year with FAS, while three times this number have AND or ABD (NOFAS). Those with FAS have a distinctive set of growth deficiencies, facial abnormalities, and central nervous system (CNS) dysfunction (NOFAS). Facial…...

mla References Berk, Laura E. 2001. Infants and Children Prenatal Through Middle Childhood, 4th ed. Pearson Allyn & Bacon. Jacobson, Joseph L. Ph.D., and Jacobson, Sandra W., Ph.D. Effects of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure on Child Development. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, prepared June 2003. 06 March 2004.   http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/arh26-4/282-286.htm  National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (NOFAS). What is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome? 06 March 2004. http://www.nofas.org/main/what_is_FAS.htm Streissguth, Ann Pytkowicz. 1997. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: A Guide for Families and Communities. Paul H. Brookes Pub Co.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Is the

According to recent studies conducted by Ernest Abel and obert Sokol, the incidence of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is estimated to be 0.33 cases per 1,000 live births. The States of Missouri less than 25 cases of Fetal alcohol Syndrome out of 80,000 recorded live births. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is considered as a serious health problem that has unfortunately affected victims and their families, however according to reports the inherited disorder ness is completely preventable. (Pauker, S.P. By the Way Doctor) The child suffering from Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is equivalent to subjecting that child into child abuse, which has to endure life long. Babies born with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome have reported to weigh less and are shorter than normal. Their living routine gets restricted and limited, due to their deformed facial features, poor coordination, learning problems, abnormal joints and limbs, and short memories. Victims of fetal alcohol syndrome often experience mental health…...

mla References Stratton, K., Howe, C., and Battaglia, F. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: Diagnosis, Epidemiology, Prevention, and Treatment. Washington, DC; National Academy Press, 1996. Streissguth, a., and Kanter, J. (Eds.) the Challenge of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Seattle: University of Washington, 1997. Stratton, K., Howe, C., and Battaglia, F. (Eds.) Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: Diagnosis, Epidemiology, Prevention, and Treatment. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 1996. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Alcohol and Your Unborn Baby. Washington, DC: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 1987

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome the Problems

Four of those children had short palpebral fissures, a smooth philtrum (see previous article by Blackburn), and "microcephaly" (a situation where a child's head is far smaller than the heads of children the same age), all manifestations of a child whose mother drank alcohol during pregnancy. Dr. Smith and other doctors that got involved began checking the various maladies these children suffered from with other children whose disabilities hadn't been labeled or fully understood, and hence, this research led to the identification of FAS. That said, there still is no "clear-cut alcohol-specific neurobehavioral phenotype for 'Alcohol Related Neurobehavioral Disorders' (ARND)" (378). Smith, along with professor Jones, in fact coined the phrase, fetal alcohol syndrome. Kvigne, Valborg L., Leonardson, Gary R., Borzelleca, Joseph, Brock, Ellen, Neff-Smith, Martha, and Welty, Thomas K. (2008). Alcohol Use, Injuries, and Prenatal Visits During Three Successive Pregnancies Among American Indian Women on the Northern Plains Who have Children with…...

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Is One

Again, growth deficiencies occur for many different reasons, and other causes must be ruled out. Central nervous system disorders in FAS can be significant and varied, and mimic other disorders. Diagnosis of FAS can be made on the basis of structural, neurological, or functional CNS disorders. Diagnosis of CNS deficits must also rule out other disorders that can co-exist with FAS, such as autism or oppositional defiant disorder (National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities). Perhaps the most important component in the procedure for the diagnosis of FAS is maternal alcohol exposure. However, this diagnosis can be difficult, as many mothers are reticent to admit that they used alcohol while pregnant. In addition, there is often little information available about alcohol use during pregnancy (National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities). Interventions for FAS are a diverse as the varied individuals and presentations of the disorder. As such, Miller…...

mla References Centers for Disease Control. Fetal Alcohol Information. 09 March 2007.   http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/fas/fasask.htm  Miller, Darcy. Students with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: New Developments and Intervention Suggestions. New Horizons for Learning. 09 March 2007.   http://www.newhorizons.org/spneeds/inclusion/collaboration/miller.htm  National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: Guidelines for Referral and Diagnosis. 09 March 2007.   http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/fas/documents/FAS_guidelines_accessible.pdf

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Special Education About the Child Pietro is a 7-year-old boy. His biological parents are Argentine and Colombian. He was born approximately six weeks prematurely because of his mother's consumption of alcohol throughout the duration of her pregnancy. According to medical reports, his mother did not consume heavy quantities of alcohol, but she did consume nominal amounts on a regular basis, such as one to three times a week, nearly every week. Pietro's parents put him up for adoption when he was approximately 1-year-old. He was brought to a Catholic orphanage outside of Buenos Aires. There were visiting child development specialists from the United Kingdom and the United States performing work at the charity, and it is under their care where Pietro was first formally diagnosed with FAS. Pietro was subsequently adopted by a Puerto ican and Argentine family residing in New York City, NY. His adoptive family consists of…...

mla References: Abel, E.L. (1980) Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: Behavior Teratology. Psychological Bulletin, 87(1), 29 -- 50. Abel, E.L., & Sokol, R.J. (1987) Incidence of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Economic Impact of FAS-Related Anomalies. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 19, 51 -- 70. British Columbia Ministry for Children and Families. (1999) Parenting Children Affected by Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: A Guide for Daily Living. The Society of Special Needs Adoptive Parents, British Columbia. Fast, MD, PhD, D.K., Conry, PhD, J., & Loock, MD, C.A. (1999) Identifying Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Among YTouth in the Criminal Justice System. Developmental and Behavior Pediatrics, 20(5), 1 -3.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome's Cognitive Affects

According to the research, this is "a theoretical framework that seeks to describe a developmental process associated with efforts to provide access for individuals with disabilities to facilities, programs, and information," (dyburn 2001 p 24). This theoretical foundation focuses on the need to increase advocacy through academic research and the exposure of common findings to advocacy groups. Then, phase 2 focuses on making much needed resources and environments for those who were previously denied based on their special education status through environmental accommodation. Finally, there is the accessibility phase, where equal access to similar resources, like education, is the norm. Research Questions There are a number of research questions this study aims to explore. They include the following: Just how much of cognitive functioning is impacted by FAS? How much does FAS cost schools in terms of special training and care? Is FAS manageable conditions within the current system, or do new measures need…...

mla Edyburn, Dave L. (2001). Models. Theories, and frameworks: Contributions to understanding special education technology. Special Education Technology and Practice. Pp 16-25. Web.   http://www.temple.edu/martec/accessibility/cd/data/assistivetech/brochure_edy_burn.pdf  Johnson, Bryan; Tamboline, Ann; Williams, Lorna; & Wright, Laurie. (1996). Teaching students with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Special Education. British Colombia Ministry of Education. Web.   http://www.bced.gov.bc.ca/specialed/fas/welcome.htm  Mattson, Sarah N. & Riley, Edward P. (1998). A review of the neurobehavioral deficits in children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome or prenatal exposure to alcohol. Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research, 22(2), 279-295.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Health Promotion

If pregnant women will not stop drinking, a broad-spectrum nutritional support may be an appropriate alternative. Christensen, Damaris (2000). Sobering Work - Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Science News: Science Service, Inc. Retrieved on October 27, 2008 at http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_mOISW/us_2001_Nov/ai_79757209?tag=content;col1 The author says that no safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy has been established in lieu of avoidance. Many pregnant women who drink heavily want to know how much they drink without harming their fetuses because they do not want to give the habit up. Some researchers say that even low doses of alcohol can bring harm. Animal studies may not be applicable to human subjects as species differ in developmental patterns. The general idea is that the safe drink for pregnant women is one without alcohol. Rheinstein, Peter H. (1992). Healthy People 2000. American Family Physician: the American Academy of Family Physicians. Retrieved on October 27, 2008 at http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3225/is_n6_v46/ai_13358040?tag=content;col1 The overall aim of this program…...

mla Bibliography Belcher, H. (2008). Fetal alcohol syndrome: an undiluted danger, 3 pages. Pediatric News: International Medical News Group. Retrieved on October 27, 2008 at   http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb4384/is_8_42/ai_n2945915?tag=content,col1  Bertrand, J. et al. (2001). Guidelines for identifying and referring persons with fetal alcohol syndrome. 24 pages. Morbidity and Mortality Report: U.S. Government Printing Office. Retrieved on October 27, 2008 at   http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0906/is_11_54/is_11_54/ai_n5894729?tag=content,col1  Christensen D. (2000). Sobering work - fetal alcohol syndrome. 5 pages. Science News: Science Service, Inc. Retrieved on October 27, 2008 at   http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_mOISW/us_2001_Nov/ai_79757209?tag=content;col1  Encyclopedia of Psychology (2001). Fetal alcohol syndrome. 2 pages. Gale Encyclopedia of Psychology: Gale Group. Retrieved on October 27, 2008 at   http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_q2699/is_0004/ai_2699000467?tag=content;col1

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Nip in

Mainstream smoke is exhaled from a smoker. Some experts say that side-stream smoke can emit higher levels of toxins than mainstream smoke. In response to these new reports, the Environmental Protection Agency classified secondhand smoke as a carcinogen because of its harmful effects on the health of both adults and the children of smokers. In addition, a lot more about the harm of other substances in tobacco smoke remains unknown (Cooper & Moley pp 206-209). oth active and passive smoking can potentially harm almost every organ of the body (Cooper & Moley, 2008 p 209). Smoking has been linked to cardiovascular disease, cancer, stroke and chronic lung disease. Health costs are enormous to public health in terms of increased deaths, the nature of the addition, and the overall medical expenses and indirect costs. A recent survey of 388 women showed that not many of them associate smoking with miscarriage, ectopic…...

mla BIBLIOGRAPHY Best, D (2009). Secondhand and prenatal tobacco smoke exposure. Pediatrics, vol 124 # 5: American Academy of Pediatrics, doi: 10.1542/peds.2009-2120 Cooper, a. R and Moley, K.H. (2008). Maternal tobacco use and its pre-implantation effects on fertility: more reasons to stop smoking. Seminars in Reproductive Medicine:: Thieme Medical Publishers

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Unkind and Unfair to Babies

Drugs and Alcohol It is a well-known and well-researched fact that a pregnant woman drinking alcohol -- or using other substances that are defined as teratogens -- is taking a risk that her baby could be negatively impacted. In fact there are well over a thousand substances that are considered to be teratogens; Purdue University lists 205 teratogens that begin with the letter "A" -- and even more that begin with "B" -- just to give the researcher and idea of how many dangerous substances that expectant mothers should steer clear of (www.purdue.edu). Essentially, teratology is the study of the "causes and biological processes leading to abnormal development and birth defects" -- an important component of teratology research seeks preventative measures (Tandon, et al., 2009). Alcohol as a frequently ingested teratogen According to a peer-reviewed article in the journal Eye, teratology has not received the attention that other research issues have received --…...

mla Works Cited Haig, D. (1993). Genetic conflicts in human pregnancy. PubMed. Retrieved March 26, 2014, From http://www.ncbi.nim.nih.gov. Merriam-Webster. (2014). Hypoplasia. Retrieved March 26, 2014, from   http://www.merriam-webster.com . Purdue University. (2008). Teratogens. Retrieved March 26, 2014, from   http://www.purdue.edu .

Poor Predictors of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Fetal

Poor Predictors of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Birthweight and Size are Poor Predictors of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Birthweight and Size are Poor Predictors of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Sampson and colleagues (1994) sought to better understand the relationship between prenatal alcohol exposure, birth size, and the neurobehavioral consequences that predictably emerge during childhood and adolescence. The main thesis of the paper is that prenatal alcohol exposure will impact birth size, but it is unknown how long after birth the correlation remains statistically significant. Since it has already been conclusively established that prenatal alcohol exposure of sufficient magnitude will result in measurable neurobehavioral deficits later in life, the authors simply examine the correlation between the amount of alcohol consumed during gestation and body measures up to the age of 14. ationale At the time that this article was published, the research concerning a causal relationship between prenatal alcohol exposure and birth size had produced conflicting results…...

mla References Blackburn, Carolyn, Carpenter, Barry, and Egerton, Jo. (2009). Facing the Challenge and Shaping the Future for Primary and Secondary Aged Students with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FAS-eD Project). National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, UK. Retrieved 5 Feb. 2013 from http://www.networks.nhs.uk/nhs-networks/foetal-alcohol-syndrome-an-spectrum-and-associated/documents/FAS-eD%20PROJECT%20LITERATURE%20REVIEW-1.pdf. NIAAA (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism). (2000). Alcohol Alert. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health. Retrieved 5 Feb. 2013 from   http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/aa50.htm . Sampson, Paul D., Bookstein, Fred L., Barr, Helen M., and Streissguth, Ann P. (1994). Prenatal alcohol exposure, birthweight, and measures of child size from birth to age 14 years. American Journal of Public Health, 84(9), 1421-1428.

FAS Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Was

1968). Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is clearly a debilitating, serious, and devastating disease that affects not only prenatal fetuses, but developing children, teenagers, and adults, as well as their families, and society in general. While more research is needed to discover possible medications, surgery, or other choices for those already born with FAS, the only solution to the problem is education for pregnant women on the dangers of alcohol consumption on the life of their unborn child. Women addicted to alcohol should seek immediate assistance during pregnancy to avoid causing lifelong damage to their child, and those not addicted should abstain from alcohol consumption during pregnancy. It is only through abstinence that FAS can be extinguished. eferences Aase, J.M., 1981, "The fetal alcohol syndrome in American Indians: A high risk group," Neurobehavioral Toxicology and Teratology, vol. 3, no. 2, p. 153-156. Abel, E.L. & Sokol, .J., 1986, "Fetal alcohol syndrome is now leading cause…...

mla References Aase, J.M., 1981, "The fetal alcohol syndrome in American Indians: A high risk group," Neurobehavioral Toxicology and Teratology, vol. 3, no. 2, p. 153-156. Abel, E.L. & Sokol, R.J., 1986, "Fetal alcohol syndrome is now leading cause of mental retardation," Lancet, vol. 2, p. 1222. Abel, E.L. & Sokol, R.J., 1987, "Incidence of fetal alcohol syndrome and economic impact of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome-related anomalies," Drug and Alcohol Dependence, vol. 19, p. 51-70. CDC, 2005, "CDC issues guidelines for identification of fetal alcohol syndrome," MMWR Morbid Mortal Weekly Report, vol. 54, no. 11, p. 1-15.

Addressing Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Multifaceted Approaches

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a serious condition that arises from prenatal exposure to alcohol. As an entirely preventable disorder, FAS remains a significant public health concern due to its enduring impacts on individuals and society. It is characterized by a constellation of physical, behavioral, and cognitive abnormalities that can have lifelong ramifications for those affected (May et al., 2009). FAS falls within a broader category of conditions known as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), with FAS being at the severe end of the spectrum. The condition was first medically described in 1973 by Jones and Smith, who noted a distinct pattern of dysmorphology and developmental delay in children whose mothers consumed alcohol during pregnancy (Jones & Smith, 1973). Since then, the understanding of FAS and its implications has evolved significantly. Prenatal alcohol exposure can cause a range of structural abnormalities and growth problems for the fetus. One of the…...

mla References Aase, J. M. (1994). Clinical recognition of fetal alcohol syndrome: Pitfalls and opportunities. Journal of Pediatrics, 125(5 Pt 1), 767-773. Astley, S. J., & Clarren, S. K. (2000). Diagnosing the full spectrum of fetal alcohol-exposed individuals: Introducing the 4-digit diagnostic code. Alcohol and Alcoholism, 35(4), 400-410. Brown, N. N., & Bednar, L. M. (2004). Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders: A research review. Educational Psychology Review, 16(3), 167-179. Chasnoff, I. J., Wells, A. M., & Telford, E. (1998). Neurodevelopmental functioning in children with FAS, alcohol-exposed, nonsyndromal children. Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research, 22(8), 1698-1705.

Diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Effect

08% or higher. Blood Alcohol content is the concentrated amount of alcohol in the blood, and this number can be assessed via chemical and Breathalyzer tests. Though this limit was previously as high as.10% in some states, even the lowered limit is not adequate to prevent alcohol related vehicle accidents. In fact, law enforcement officials classify an accident as alcohol related if a driver's blood alcohol content was.01%, or two drinks, or higher. Though some groups praise the.08% law as one of the biggest steps in drunk driving prevention, other groups believe a no tolerance policy should be adopted for operating under the influence of alcohol, similar to the policy that is already in effect for minors. The physiological effects of alcohol do not begin at.08%. In fact, they begin at much lower blood alcohol content levels. According to Brown University, moodiness increases at.02-.03%; fatigue, delayed reaction time, and errors in…...

mla Works Cited American Academy of Pediatrics. "Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects." Pediatrics. 91.5(1993): 1004-1006. Fetal Alcohol Information." Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. 2006. Centers for Disease Control. 6 May 2008.   http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/fas/fasask.htm . Proposition 65." Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment. n.d. California

Alcohol Should Be Illegal There

Alcohol has extreme effects on physical and social functioning that has the potential to harm people who are not involved with the actual consumption. If an individual who has consumed alcohol chooses to drive while intoxicated then the potential for harm is increased exponentially. Of course, the effects on the body itself demonstrate that alcohol is a dangerous drug that should not be available to the general public. As with many illegal or controlled substances or other objects, it has been shown time and time again that the general public often needs protection from themselves, and protection from each other. hen the dangers are also translated to innocent victims like strangers, and close friends, the choice should be removed for those not responsible enough or strong enough to avoid the temptation. Since the existence and knowledge of alcohol cannot be removed, the legality can be and serious punishment imposed…...

mla Works Cited Cambridgeshire Alcohol Advisory Service. "Alcohol -- the Effects on the Body." Drinksense. Accessed 9 December 2006 at   http://www.gurney.co.uk/drinksense/factsheets/effects.htm . KeRo Corporation. "Drink Driving Statistics." Alcohol Alert. Accessed 9 December 2006 at http://www.alcoholalert.com/drunk-drivingstatistics.html.

Drinking Alcohol Together With Tobacco

hile each of these studies has reported a cardioprotective effect of alcohol, they differ over which type of alcoholic beverage provides the greatest benefit" (634). Overlooked in many of these studies, though, is the fact that some people who categorize themselves as being one type of drinker compared to another may engage in other activities that are unhealthy from the outset (for instance, beer drinkers may be more likely to also be tobacco users) while others may engage in a wide range of healthy behaviors (for example, wine drinkers may not be smokers and may job or exercise regularly). As McGregor and his colleagues emphasize, "One inherent difficulty within these studies is that in the general population, drinkers distinguished as primarily wine, beer or spirits drinkers tend to differ in other important aspects. If, for example, wine drinkers are found to be healthier, it may be the result of a…...

mla Works Cited "Alcohol." 2009, Partnership for a Drug-Free America. [Online]. Available: free.org/Portal/drug_guide/Alcohol. http://www.drug Booth, Brenda M., Joann, Kirchner, John Fortney, Robin Ross and Kathryn Rost, 2000, "Rural At-Risk Drinkers: Correlates and One-Year Use of Alcoholism Treatment Services." Journal of Studies on Alcohol 61(2): 267.

How can maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy impact fetal development and lead to fetal alcohol syndrome?

Maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy can have damaging effects on fetal development and lead to fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). When a pregnant woman consumes alcohol, it crosses the placenta and enters the developing fetus's bloodstream, affecting its growth and development in various ways: 1. Alcohol interferes with the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the fetus, leading to growth restrictions and low birth weight. 2. Alcohol exposure can disrupt the development of the fetus's brain and central nervous system, resulting in cognitive and behavioral impairments, learning disabilities, and developmental delays. 3. Alcohol can cause structural abnormalities in the fetus's facial features, such as....

Maternal Alcohol Consumption during Pregnancy and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Introduction Alcohol consumption during pregnancy is a leading cause of preventable birth defects. Exposure to alcohol in the womb can have severe and lifelong consequences for the developing fetus, leading to a range of neurodevelopmental disorders, including fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). How Alcohol Affects the Fetus Alcohol can cross the placenta and reach the fetus directly. Once in the fetal circulation, it can disrupt cell growth and differentiation, particularly in the brain and other organs that are rapidly developing. Additionally, alcohol can interfere with the production of essential nutrients, such as folic acid, which are....

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Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Essay

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) refers to a group of physical and mental birth defects resulting from a women’s drinking alcohol heavily or at crucial stages during pregnancy. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome was first named and treated in the late 1960's. This condition results from the toxic effect of alcohol and its chemical factors on the developing fetus. FAS is the leading cause of mental retardation occurring in 1 out of every 750 births . The frequency of FAS occurs about 1.9 times out of every 1000 births according to the latest figures, and minor effects can be seen in up to 20% of pregnancies per year. This number changes drastically for women who are clearly alcoholics. As high as 29 children out of every 1000 births will suffer from FAS …show more content…

In the United States, epidemiological data suggest that the rates of FAS tend to higher in African American and Native Americans than whites of similar socioeconomic status. A survey complied by the centers for disease control and prevention reviewed more than 4.6 million births in approximately 1,200 hospitals and showed considerable differences in occurrence of FAS among racial groups. The reason for variance among these groups remains unclear. Among Native Americans, rates of FAS even varied between the different tribes. This may be attributed to nutrition, fertility, or metabolic differences in the genetic makeup of each tribe. Also Native American family culture can influence drinking patterns often leading to a higher rate of alcohol consumption. Among factors to consider, alcohol consumption is frequently associated with drug abuse, smoking, and malnutrition. All of these factors can cause serious harm to the developing embryo of a child. It is difficult for researchers to decide which effects are caused by alcohol alone. To clearly distinguish a child as having FAS poses a difficult thing for researchers. They soon began to realize that they were encountering children with some, but not all the classical signs of FAS. Because a diagnosis of FAS demands the presence of all three hallmarks, (growth deficiency, central nervous system dysfunction, and

Alcohol And The Fetus Essay

The fetus is not the only one harmed by alcohol consumption during pregnancy, but the mother is as well. In fact, many doctors urge women who think they are pregnant or are trying to get pregnant to stop drinking (“Fetal Alcohol”). “One percent of all mothers consume fourteen or more drinks per week during the three months before pregnancy” (Walsh 3). To the average person one percent is not too large of a proportion. However, the volume of alcohol consumed is high during

Alcohol Abuse Effects

Alcoholism is a real threat to pregnant women. In particular, there is a huge rise in Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) cases, which is when an unborn fetus actually becomes addicted to and dependent on alcohol passed from the mother. In 1996, only 0.5 to 3.0 cases were confirmed for every 1,000 pregnancies, but today, that number is a staggering 20 to 50 cases per 1,000

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (CDC)

The CDC talks about the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders; the causes, prevention, symptoms, treatment and ways to get help. The FASDs causes the baby to have problems when they are born and throughout their whole life. The cause of FASDs is when a woman drinks alcohol when she’s pregnant, or does not know that she is pregnant will cause problems to herself and the baby. When the mother drinks alcohol it’s in her blood, and it passes to the baby through the umbilical cord (CDC). Obviously, the prevention of FASDs is to avoid alcohol when you’re pregnant or start feeling nausea, morning sickness or any other pregnancy symptoms. The symptom and signs of having this disorder are learning disabilities, poor memory, problem learning math, problems

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder And Language Development / Impairment

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a concise, uniform definition for conditions caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. FASD is a broad term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother drank alcohol during pregnancy (Caley, Kramer, & Robinson, 2005). Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder can also cause growth retardation, birth defectscomma and deficits in cognitive, languagecomma and motor development (Coles et al., 2015). Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder is a teratogenic effect, which is caused by daily, chronic, heavy and frequent alcohol use while in utero. Chances of an infant diagnosed with FASD are 0.5 to 3 in 1,000 live births (Cone-Wesson, 2005). Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder has many different diagnoses. There is fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), partial fetal alcohol syndrome (PFAS)comma and alcohol-related neuro-developmental disorder (ARND)comma all under the fetal alcohol spectrum disorder umbrella (Brown et al., 2015). Maternal alcohol use is correlated to the timing, frequencycomma and quantity of the consumption of alcohol during pregnancy. Drinking during the first trimester may not be as detrimental as drinking during the second or third trimester. The frequency of alcohol consumed is also a key factor in FASD, such as how often per day drinks are consumed, the quantity of alcohol consumed, and how many glasses or cans per day the mother consumes

Banning Drinking While Pregnant Essay

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The term “Fetal Alcohol Spectrum disorders” (FASDS) is used to describe the numerous problems associated with exposure to alcohol before birth. Each year in the United States, up to 40,000 babies are born with “Fetal Alcohol Spectrum disorders” (FASDs) (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). Additionally, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum disorders (FASDs) comes with effects that range from mild to severe. These effects include mental retardation; learning, emotional and behavioral problems; and defects involving the heart, face and other organs. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, the patterns of drinking that place a baby at greatest risk for FASDS are binge drinking and drinking seven or more drinks per week (Surgeon General). However, FASDS can occur in babies of women who drink less. There is no way of measuring how much alcohol one can consume before defects occur, and no proof that small amounts of alcohol are safe. As little as one drink a day can cause a baby some degree of harm and interfere with their normal development.

Effects Of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is physical and mental damage in a child due to alcohol exposure while in the womb. Every year, 1 in 750 infants in the U.S. are born with fetal alcohol syndrome, which is the leading known preventable cause of birth defects in the U.S. Another 40,000 children are born with fetal alcohol effects. Some infants born with fetal alcohol syndrome have symptoms such as a low birth weight, small head circumference, and facial abnormalities (e.g. smaller eye openings, flattened cheekbones, etc.). Children born with fetal alcohol syndrome also experience developmental delay, organ dysfunction, lack of imagination or curiosity, and behavioral problems (including hyperactivity, anxiety, impulsiveness, and social withdrawal. Some other symptoms include poor coordination, learning difficulties, poor social skills, and epilepsy. These symptoms are the same ones that children with fetal alcohol effects, but children with fetal alcohol effects experience them display them to a lesser degree.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Research Paper

There are a number of symptoms that a child may develop if he or she has FAS. Some of those symptoms include low birth weight, failure to thrive, small head circumference, facial abnormalities and epilepsy. The effects of FAS can be long-lasting. Children who have FAS are more likely to develop mental retardation. In fact, FAS is the top cause of mental retardation in children.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder ( Fasd )

FAS is defined as a medical diagnosis involving four key features: alcohol exposure, growth deficiently, certain facial features, and brain damage. Infants who have been exposed to prenatal alcohol rarely show all symptoms of the medical condition FAS. Other terms have been used to describe the implication involved with FAS. Frequently used terms are: Partial Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Alcohol-related Neurodevelopmental Disorder and Alcohol-related Birth Defects. A child with Partial Fetal Alcohol syndrome exhibits only some of the physical signs of FAS and will likely have both learning and behavioral difficulties. A child suffering from Alcohol-related Neurodevelopmental Disorder will demonstrate signs of neural damage, problems with memory, poor social skills, and learning difficulties. Children diagnosed with

FAS Or Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

FAS or fetal alcohol syndrome is a severe form of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), and the effects of this condition are usually permanent. There are a wide range of symptoms and these are just a few: a small head, smooth ridge between the upper lip and nose, small and wide-set eyes, very thin upper lip, or other abnormal facial features and below average height and weight. (The Healthline Editorial Team). 2015. Another factor that may affect the fetus and the baby in future development is stress. When you’re stressed, your body goes into "fight or flight" mode, sending out a burst of cortisol and other stress hormones. These are the same hormones that surge when you are in danger. They prepare you to run by sending a blast of fuel to your muscles and making your heart pump faster. (Watson, S). 2013. Some studies show that chronic stress may lead to low birth weight, and this is when you alter your bodies stress management system. And based on what I have read I do feel that lower stress levels outweigh the minor risks of controlled alcohol consumption. This is due to the fact that there have been no studies that directley link moderate alcohol consumption to birth defects. FAS has been linked to mothers who abused alcohol during

Essay on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

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Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a pattern of mental, physical, and behavioral defects that may develop in the unborn child when its mother drinks during pregnancy. These defects occur primarily during the first trimester when the teratogenic effects of the alcohol have the greatest effect on the developing organs. The symptoms associated with FAS have been observed for many centuries, but it was not until 1968 that Lemoine and his associates formally described these symptoms in the scientific literature, and again in 1973 when Jones and associates designated a specific pattern of altered growth and dysmorphogenesis as the Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (Rostand, p. 302). The set of abnormalities characterized by Jones

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) Essay

One of the leading causes of mental retardation in the United States is fetal alcohol syndrome or FAS. Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance by pregnant women because it's legal and socially acceptable. A greater majority of young women are not aware of the complications that are involved with pregnancy. They see pregnancy as a way of bringing a life into the world but do not use the necessary safety measure in their dietary habits to prevent such damage or inhibitions of such a life. By continuing on their drinking binge throughout their pregnancy, they can cause an inexplicable damage to herself and the fetus she is carrying. In my opinion, any amount of alcohol combined with pregnancy can cause

Drinking While Pregnant Research Paper

Drinking can also cause the baby to be born with certain features that are different from a non-alcoholic pregnant woman such as being skinny and the head size being smaller than

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Every year, about 40,000 babies are born with symptoms of prenatal alcohol exposure (Lupton, 2003). This number will only continue to grow if the risk of drinking alcohol while pregnant is not brought to the people’s attention. When the mother takes a drink of alcohol, so does the fetus, which will cause physical and behavioral problems after birth. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is completely preventable and irreversible. FAS awareness and prevention is important; expectant mothers need to know the background information about the syndrome, some common symptoms, signs, and treatments, and the mental and physical abnormalities that will occur because of this lifelong syndrome.

The science behind FAS is quite simple; as it is known that alcohol has a damaging effect on the body, it has similar consequences on the fetus. Since the fetus is constantly developing, the alcohol causes more serious defects to the unborn child. Alcohol exposure to a fetus is known as a teratogen. “Teratogens are substances or conditions that disrupt typical development in offspring as a result of gestational exposure and cause birth defects.” (Wilson & Fraser, 1977). Although the exposure to alcohol causes problems in the fetus, studies have shown that it may not accurately be the alcohol in the mother’s system that causes these defects, rather the byproducts that form when the body metabolizes the alcohol. This can lead to a decrease in brain cells, abnormal location of neurons, and gross malformation to the brain. Since alcohol causes this central nervous system damage, it is classified as a neurobehavioral teratogen, which is a group of teratogens that cause brain damage and modify behaviors. (Riley & Vorhees, 1986). The CNS damage is the primary defect due to alcohol and it is quite common to have these damages without any physical abnormalities. The more alcohol that is consumed the more birth defects that will arise in the

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

According to Seaver, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is birth defects causing learning, and behavioral problems in individuals whose mothers drank alcohol during pregnancy. This disorder is very serious, yet it is recognized as one of the most preventable. This causes major issues, when something so serious could be prevented but is not. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is a problem because it leaves a permanent effect on the unborn child, but some solutions could be educating women and putting up more informational posters and warning labels on products.

Related Topics

• Nervous system
• Birth defects
• Alcohol syndrome
• Retardation

Essay on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Students are often asked to write an essay on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

What is fetal alcohol syndrome.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a serious health problem that happens when a mother drinks alcohol during pregnancy. It can cause the baby to have physical and mental issues that last a lifetime. Babies with FAS might have a hard time growing and look different from other kids.

Signs of FAS

Babies with FAS may have small heads, unusual facial features, and be less heavy and shorter than other babies. They might also have trouble in school, especially with learning and behavior. These signs can be noticed at birth or as the child grows.

Preventing FAS

The only way to prevent FAS is for pregnant women to avoid alcohol completely. No amount of alcohol is safe during pregnancy. When expecting mothers stay away from alcohol, they protect their babies from the harmful effects that can cause FAS.

250 Words Essay on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a serious health issue for babies. It happens when a mother drinks alcohol during her pregnancy. The alcohol can harm the baby growing inside her. Babies with FAS might have problems with their growth, have faces that look a bit different, and have trouble learning or behaving.

How Alcohol Affects the Baby

When a pregnant woman drinks alcohol, it goes to the baby through her blood. The baby’s tiny body can’t handle alcohol well. This can stop the baby’s body and brain from developing right. It can also cause damage that stays for the baby’s whole life.

Signs of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Babies with FAS might be smaller than other babies, and they might not grow as quickly. Their eyes, ears, and mouths might look different. As they get older, they might have a hard time in school and struggle to get along with others.

Preventing Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

The best way to stop FAS is for pregnant women not to drink any alcohol at all. There’s no safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy. Doctors and health teachers say that staying away from alcohol is the safest choice for the baby.

Getting Help

If a baby has FAS, getting help early is important. Doctors, teachers, and special programs can help the child learn and grow better. The family can also get support to take care of a child with FAS. It’s a tough situation, but with the right help, children with FAS can still have happy and fulfilling lives.

500 Words Essay on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a serious health problem that affects children whose mothers drank alcohol during pregnancy. It is a part of a group of conditions called Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). When a woman drinks alcohol while she is pregnant, the alcohol goes through her blood and reaches the baby. The baby’s body is not strong enough to deal with alcohol, and this can lead to harm.

Children with FAS may have different signs. Some may have a hard time growing before and after birth, meaning they might be smaller than other kids their age. They could have unusual facial features, such as a smooth area between the nose and upper lip, small head size, and narrow eye openings. Apart from how they look, these kids might have problems with their brains. This can make learning difficult, cause issues with memory, attention, and with how they act around others.

How FAS Affects Daily Life

Kids with FAS might find everyday things challenging. They could struggle in school because it’s hard for them to focus, remember things, or they might not understand social rules. Sometimes, they can get frustrated or angry easily. They might also find it difficult to make friends or to know how to behave in different situations.

The best way to stop FAS is for pregnant women to avoid alcohol completely. There is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy, and no safe time to drink. When a woman is planning to become pregnant, it is a good idea for her to stop drinking alcohol to keep her baby safe. Doctors and health workers try to spread this message so that fewer children are born with FAS.

Treatment and Support

There is no cure for FAS, but there are ways to help children who have it. Early treatment can make a big difference. This might include therapy to help with speech, physical movement, and learning. Special education and support at school can help children with FAS do better in their classes. It’s also important for families to get support, as taking care of a child with FAS can be tough.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is a preventable condition that can cause lifelong challenges for children. By understanding what FAS is and how it affects kids, we can work towards preventing it. For those already affected, early help and ongoing support can improve their lives. It’s important for everyone to know about the dangers of drinking alcohol during pregnancy so we can keep babies safe and healthy.

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