Preventing Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Preventing Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Prevention and Treatment

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) is an overall term describing the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These effects may include physical, mental, behavioral, or learning disabilities with possible lifelong implications. These disorders often co-occur with substance abuse and mental health issues, and generally require treatment modifications for successful outcomes.

The prevalence of the full spectrum of FASD in the general population is estimated at 9.1 per 1,000 live births, although some estimates suggest closer to 50 per 1,000 (or roughly 200,000 babies per year in the United States alone, based on 2010 general birth rates). Issues of stigma surrounding FASD may lead to under-reporting, disguising true prevalence. Since these disorders are 100 percent preventable, it is important to identify and use effective prevention strategies toward those at risk for consuming alcohol during pregnancy.

Learn More About FASD | FASD Resources in Your State

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Enhance FASD Prevention Programs

• Preventing and Addressing FASD in Your State [PDF - 1 MB]
• Addressing FASD in Women’s Residential Substance Abuse Treatment [PDF - 843 KB]
• Integrating Sustainable FASD Services in Your Existing Service Setting [PDF - 670 KB]

Understand FASD Research and Policy

• Report on FASD-Related Legislation Between 2003 and 2012 [PDF – 529 KB]
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Report on Binge Drinking Among Women and Girls

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The mission of the SAMHSA Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Center for Excellence is to facilitate the development of culturally appropriate and effective behavioral health policies, practices, and programs to improve FASD prevention, treatment, and care systems by collaborating and coordinating with Federal, national, state, and community FASD partners.