| Fetal alcohol syndrome is rare and usually associated with really heavy alcohol usage-particulalry heavy binge drinking. The exact thresholds above which alcohol intake is thought to cause the condition aren't defined with any certainty. The condition leads to poor fetal growth in the womb(which can be detected on ultrasound) and the placenta often looks very pale. When baby is born, there are characteristic facial features-a thin upper lip, lack of a pronounced philtrum (the skin ridge running between nose and upper lip) and widely spaced narrow eyes. Cleft lip and palate, and heart defects (hole in the heart) may occur also. The condition frequently leads to developmental delay and attention hyperactivity problems. These should be recognised early-as assessment by paediatricians and developmental psychologists, with careful structured educational input and support are likely to be the best way of improving a child's outcome where affected by the condition. It is perfectly possible that many children-often with very minor features of the condition-are not recognised by medical and educational services and nevertheless go on to have happy and productive lives. |
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