Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

Alcohol is the most common teratogen. Its actions have significant physical and neurodevelopmental consequences on a developing fetus that result in substantial expenditures for the health-care system. This review examines the epidemiology of alcohol-exposed pregnancies as well as the myriad obstacles endured by affected infants. Methods of alcohol detection and mechanisms of the deleterious effects of alcohol on the fetus also are discussed. This review also elaborates both sides of the controversial issue of whether there is a “safe” level of alcohol exposure for a developing fetus.