Identifying maternal self-reported alcohol use associated with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Background: The incidence of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) has been estimate d at 1 to 3 per 1000 live births. Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) ( which include FAS) are estimated to occur in about 1 in 100 births. Cessati on of drinking during pregnancy can improve the outcome even if the unborn child is already affected. For individuals born with FASD, an early diagnos is appears to be a protective factor against secondary disabilities. A quic k screening tool to identify newborn children at risk has been elusive. Methods: A simple descriptive presentation is offered that shows where 36 i ndividuals with FASD were found from among the many patterns and amounts of prenatal alcohol use that were reported by a sample of 1439 pregnant women whose offspring were later examined within the first 7 years of life. Results: Individuals with FASD (i.e., those with FAS, fetal alcohol effects , alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorder)were found within two aggrega tes of alcohol scores that together recommend a set of three to four alcoho l questions. Within this derivation sample, one scoring of the questions yi elds almost 78% sensitivity and 97% specificity for FASD. Another scoring o f the same instrument yields 100% sensitivity with 90% specificity. Conclusions: These new data may facilitate early identification of offsprin g who may be most in need of early intervention, namely those born with FAS D.