Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Overview

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is an umbrella term describing a broad range of adverse developmental effects that can occur in an individual with prenatal exposure to alcohol. A child or adolescent with an FASD may have a combination of physical, neurodevelopmental, neurocognitive, and behavioral problems with each manifesting a range of severity. It is not known how many people in the United States have an FASD. Several initial studies, using active case findings of school-aged children, indicate that 1% to 5% of children in the United States may have an FASD. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data indicate that approximately 12% of pregnancies may have alcohol exposure. 

An FASD diagnosis provides families, pediatricians and nonphysician clinicians a framework for understanding an individual’s behavior. Science indicates that therapeutic interventions, special education and support services improve outcomes for patients and families. The protective effect of early diagnosis can reduce the risk of additional disabilities and mitigate lifelong consequences. Ongoing care in a supportive pediatric home is an important component to achieving health and wellbeing for any child with an FASD and their family. 

Screening, Assessment, and Diagnosis

This section guides pediatricians and nonphysician clinicians through the process of assessing and screening for a potential FASD.

Health Supervision

This section provides information on evidence-based interventions, resources for clinicians, and helping families of children with an FASD access services and community supports.

Practice Management

Find resources and tools to support provision of a medical home for children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders in your practice.