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Each May, NCADD and the National Network of Affiliates play a significant and vital role across the US in educating people, especially women, about the dangers of consuming alcohol and using drugs during pregnancy. An educated mother or father can prevent the fate many newborns face. This month is about educating people about the facts.
Fetal alcohol syndrome disorder (FASD), the leading cause of developmental disabilities in newborns (historically known as mental retardation), stems from maternal alcoholism or heavy drinking during pregnancy.
ALCOHOL
Features of FASD include growth deficiency before and after birth, developmental delays, intellectual challenges, behavioral problems, and changes in facial characteristics such as a flattened mid-face, small jaw, or a thin upper lip.
COCAINE
Perinatal cocaine exposure can result in obstetrical complications such as low birth weight, smaller head circumference, abnormal neonatal behavior, and cerebral infarction at birth. Children with this exposure are easily distracted and passive. They face various visual and perceptual problems and difficulties with fine motor skills.
Alcohol and Drug use During pregnancy:
In the US:
20 percent (about one million) of pregnant women smoke cigarettes; 18 percent (about 750,000) of women drink alcohol during pregnancy;
Six percent (225,000) of women use an illicit drug at least once while carrying a child to term.