Alcohol can alter the normal development of the fetus (unborn baby).
The possible effects of fetal alcohol exposure include brain damage, birth defects, poor growth before and after birth, low IQ or learning difficulties, delayed development, social and behavioural problems and problems with hearing, speech and vision.
If these problems aren't identified and intervention strategies put into place, it can result in secondary disabilities which can include early school leaving, drug and alcohol addiction, mental health problems, inappropriate sexual behaviour and trouble with the police.
Many women choose to abstain from alcohol completely when they are
pregnant or trying to get pregnant to avoid any risk that their
unborn child will be exposed to alcohol.
On behalf of the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research and the Government of Western Australia Drug and Alcohol Office thank you to everyone who attended the Focus on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders in WA Forum on Monday 27 February 2012.
With 155 people registered to attend we were overwhelmed by the interest in the forum and the positive feedback we received. Participants were from government departments - corrective services, child protection, education and health; maternity groups and support services; universities; research institutes; Aboriginal health organisations; foster carers and support organisations; community groups; private practitioners; and consumers and community members.
We acknowledge the commitment and enthusiasm of the presenters and thank them for their time in sharing their knowledge and telling us of the work they are doing. Read more