Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
摘要
Alcohol consumption is currently permissible in many environments and cultures, becoming a widespread habit for both men and women. However, alcohol consumption in pregnant women represents a great risk since it affects the embryonic/foetal stage. These risks are encountered even before pregnancy, since habits may later lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. The fetal alcoholic spectrum disorders (FASD) integrate a group of diseases, which could occur consequently to the consumption of alcohol during pregnancy and which will favour the presence of physical, intellectual, and behavioural disorders. These disorders are permanent along life. However, the fetal alcohol spectrum syndrome is 100% preventable. The most prominent form of intervention is educational awareness for pregnant and non-pregnant women to reduce risk and prevent harm. In present review, we analyse neurocognitive and behavioural profile of foetal alcohol spectrum disorder, neuropsychological disorders of FASD, FASD and autism, alcohol as a teratogen, cause of FASD, animal models of FASD, complementary diagnostic methods, preventive care procedures, and suggested therapeutic approaches. The results of the review of articles here considered project evidence that definitely implies knowledge and awareness regarding the repercussions of alcohol intake. This evidence indicates not only the affectation of the biophysiological functions as a consequence of the malformations, but also cognitive problems. The information of signs and symptoms of the fetal alcohol syndrome in the first weeks, months, or years of the baby’s life and the consequences for life in society seems, in short, a relevant task for its prevention.