Children harmed by prenatal alcohol exposure left without diagnosis and support

In the United States, as many as 1 in 20 school-aged children may live with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), a permanent condition caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. Many of them grow up without a diagnosis and without the support they need at school and in daily life.

Researchers from the University of Helsinki and HUS Helsinki University Hospital followed the development, learning skills and everyday challenges of 80 six-year-old children. Of these, 28 had been exposed to alcohol prenatally and 52 formed the control group. Nearly 80% of the exposed children were diagnosed with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) in the study, and none had previously received the diagnosis.

FASD encompasses all developmental disorders caused by prenatal alcohol exposure, including difficulties with learning and memory, ADHD-related traits, changes in facial features and growth impairments.

Struggles with learning and concentration

Children exposed to alcohol performed less well than the control group on tasks measuring reasoning, problem-solving and memory. In addition, parents and preschool staff reported more ADHD-related traits, difficulties in social interaction and challenges in everyday functioning among the exposed children.

The researchers highlight the importance of detecting these difficulties as early as possible. A diagnosis provides access to the support the child needs in daycare, school and everyday life.

“The earlier a child receives a diagnosis, the more effectively their development and functional capacity can be supported,” says Nina Kaminen-Ahola, who led the study.

The findings are a part of a broader study that explores biomarkers in the early diagnosis of alcohol-related damage.

Early pregnancy is the most sensitive stage for the embryo

The researchers expected that long-term exposure would have more pronounced effects on the children than short-term exposure. The results were surprising. Children exposed only before the eighth week showed as many abnormalities in nervous system and facial development as those exposed for longer periods. Only growth impairments were absent when exposure was limited to early pregnancy.

This is an important finding, as many women are unaware they are pregnant in the first weeks.

“Since not everyone knows they are pregnant during the period when the embryo is most vulnerable, alcohol should be avoided as soon as pregnancy is being planned,” says Mirjami Jolma, pediatric neurologist who was involved in the study.