A MULTIPLE-LEVEL, COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO THE PREVENTION OF FETAL ALCOHOL SYNDROME (FAS) AND OTHER ALCOHOL-RELATED BIRTH-DEFECTS (ARBD)

A comprehensive program for the prevention of fetal alcohol syndrome ( FAS) and alcohol-related birth defects (ARBD) must consider multiple a pproaches and utilize knowledge from a variety of academic disciplines . Issues related to culture, society, behavior, belief systems, and me dicine must all be considered for both etiology and solutions. A broad paradigm such as a public health model integrates various elements of approach. Because FAS and other levels of ARBD form a spectrum, from severe to negligible damage, a variety of drinking patterns with vario us characteristics and etiologies have to be addressed. This paper des cribes a multiple-level, comprehensive program with primary, secondary , and tertiary prevention components. Practical recommendations are pr oposed for addressing ARBD in a variety of arenas. While secondary and tertiary prevention hold promise for short- term reduction of FAS and ARBD prevalence, comprehensive prevention serves both short- and long -term effects. Multiple level prevention efforts are well served by cl ear and compelling vision and mission statements, and require careful evaluation.