Impacts of alcohol use in pregnancy--the role of the GP.
BACKGROUND
Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a preventable cause of developmental delay and growth failure.


OBJECTIVE
This article discusses the clinical features of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) and the role of the general practitioner in prevention and management.


CONCLUSIONS
Early diagnosis of and intervention for problems associated with FAS reduce adverse long term outcomes. Most health professionals have limited knowledge of FASD and lack confidence in the diagnosis and management of children with FASD. General practitioners have an important role in identifying women and children at risk of harm from alcohol and arranging referral for assessment and management when necessary. Educational materials for health professionals are currently under development.
The Children's Hospital at Westmead, New South Wales. elizabp5@chw.edu.au
Elizabeth
E
Peadon
Colleen
C
O'Leary
Carol
C
Bower
Elizabeth
E
Elliott
D000428:Alcohol Drinking / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001315:Australia; D005260:Female; D063647:Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D010819:Physician's Role; D010821:Physicians, Family; D011247:Pregnancy; D012017:Referral and Consultation