Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Fasd Prevention

Reflecting the recent increased public awareness of the topic, this is the first and most comprehensive resource for over a decade on the molecular basis, prevalence, treatment options, socioeconomic impact and prevention strategies of FADS. Edited by world-renowned experts, this compendium includes the latest research results to provide new insights and realistic estimations of FADS frequencies in Western communities. An invaluable resource for every professional dealing with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of FADS, from researchers via health professionals to social workers.

This volume provides current state-of-the-art methods for screening, diagnosis, management, and prevention of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (and FASD). Chapters detail animal models, mechanism of ethanol teratogenesis, genetic mechanisms, clinical perspectives, physical traits in children with FASD, managing behavior, FASD and the correction system, nutritional influences aiding FASD prevention, prenatal alcohol screening, the use of dental signatures in FASD diagnosis, the experiences of FASD research and clinical practices in Australia, Canada, UK, USA, adult FASD diagnosis, FASD and children in care, FASD and the healing journey. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Advances in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder aims to be a useful practical guide to researchers and clinicians to help further their study in this field.

Exposing a developing embryo or fetus to alcohol can produce life long brain damage with neurological, cognitive and behavioural consequences. The implications of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder for the affected individual and the family are devastating. The social and economic burden to society is enormous with formidable expenditures in health care, mental health care, education, social services and possibly correctional services. Prevention has been a goal since the condition was medically described and defined forty years ago, but has remained elusive but feasible. This book reviews the evidence for effective strategies. It lays out what needs to be done. The book should be of great value to policy makers, clinicians, researchers and others advocating for action against this condition that is reducing the potential of our society and sapping its resources.

This book presents clinical assessment and management solutions for those people who are exposed to Alcohol in Pregnancy. Over the last few decades we have begun to understand the enduring effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on the developing fetus. The consequence of prenatal alcohol exposure - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders is a lifelong disorder and affects children and adults. It is a condition which is significantly under-recognised for many reasons. Assessment and diagnosis requires the input of multiple different professionals, and referral pathways are often poorly developed or non-existent. Information to support and guide these professionals in practical ways, what to do and how to help, remains limited. This book seeks to fill some of that gap by offering professionals, clear and useable research-based information and guidance that will help in their practice whilst also being a useful resource for anyone new to this increasingly recognised area of work. The book is divided into four broad areas bringing together chapters authored by experts in their field including those with lived experiences. Part one focuses on presenting an overview of the condition, and approaching women about their alcohol use and risk followed by part two focusing more around diagnostic issues. Part three follows with management advice, and part four revolves around policy and health prevention in general. Each chapter is designed to offer insight but also practical tips and support in an accessible manner. The book offers an essential guide for a broad range of health and social care professionals working with this condition.

It sounds simple: Women who drink while pregnant may give birth to children with defects, so women should not drink during pregnancy. Yet in the 20 years since it was first described in the medical literature, fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) has proved to be a stubborn problem, with consequences as serious as those of the more widely publicized "crack babies." This volume discusses FAS and other possibly alcohol-related effects from two broad perspectives: diagnosis and surveillance, and prevention and treatment. In addition, it includes several real-life vignettes of FAS children. The committee examines fundamental concepts for setting diagnostic criteria in general, reviews and updates the diagnostic criteria for FAS and related conditions, and explores current research findings and problems associated with FAS epidemiology and surveillance. In addition, the book describes an integrated multidisciplinary approach to research on the prevention and treatment of FAS. The committee Discusses levels of preventive intervention. Reviews available data about women and alcohol abuse and treatment among pregnant women. Explores the psychological and behavioral consequences of FAS at different ages. Examines the current state of knowledge about medical and therapeutic interventions, education efforts, and family support programs. This volume will be of special interest to physicians, nurses, mental health practitioners, school and public health officials, policymakers, researchers, educators, and anyone else involved in serving families and children, especially in high risk populations.