Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder in Australia: What is the current state of affairs?

Drug Alcohol Rev. 2018 Nov;37(7):827-830. doi: 10.1111/dar.12855. Epub 2018 Aug 15.

Abstract

The term fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is used to describe a wide range of difficulties that individuals who are exposed to alcohol prenatally can face. FASD is a significant public health concern that is currently under-recognised and consequently, under-diagnosed in Australia. A new Commonwealth FASD Strategy (2018-2028) is being developed and the Australian Government has announced significant funding for the expansion of FASD prevention, diagnostic and intervention services around Australia. Therefore, it is timely to consider what the current state of affairs regarding FASD in Australia is and describe areas for future research and service delivery.

Keywords: diagnosis; fetal alcohol spectrum disorder; intervention; prenatal alcohol exposure, prevalence; prevention.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Australia / epidemiology
  • Early Medical Intervention / methods*
  • Early Medical Intervention / trends
  • Female
  • Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders / diagnosis
  • Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders / epidemiology*
  • Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy