Fetal drug addiction as a consequence of maternal cocaine free base abuse during pregnancy

Background: Fetal drug addiction is a serious public health problem. In the United States 10 to 15% of children have been exposed "in utero" to cocain e. In a Chilean public health service, more than 200 offspring of cocaine f ree base abuser have been detected. Aim: To analyze the clinical and social features of 100 children exposed to cocain le free base during fetal devel opment. Patients and methods: Clinical features of children born from cocai ne free base consume mothers were described at birth. During subsequent fol lowup, growth and development, disease episodes, developmental alterations and social situation were recorded. Data was compared with other newborns f rom the same health service. Results! Compared to their normal counterparts , exposed children has a lower birth weight, the frequency of premature bab ies was thrice higher, and small-for-gestational age children were four tim es more common. There was also a higher prevalence of cardiac malformations , seizures and apnea. Hospital admissions were more frequent, prolonged and required more complex facilities. During follow up, undernutrition and stu nting were more prevalent. Psychomotor: retardation was present in 67% of c hildren and behavior al disturbances ill 93%. Most of these children are go vernmental protection. Conclusions: Strategies to prevent drug abuse during pregnancy and its devastating medical and social consequences should he ur gently developed.