Latest research uncovers stronger relation between alcohol consumption during pregnancy and alcohol-related diseases on children. Expecting mothers are advised to heed previously understated warnings against alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
According to Fit Pregnancy, the most cliché warning doctors give to pregnant woman would be about staying away from alcohol. Unfortunately, as common as the warning could be, about one out of every thirteen pregnant women still drink.
The results of the recent studies of Pediatrics on alcohol-related diseases on children reveal that the effect of alcohol consumption to children is far greater than what was previously believed. One out of every five children is at risk of having what is called the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD).
The new statistics is significantly higher than the original estimate, which was only pegged at one percent of the entire American population. FASD comprises a number of diseases including Fetal and Partial Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS and PFAS), along with Alcohol Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (ARND).
Recognizable manifestations included abnormal facial features, eye deformities, as well as abnormal head, weight and height among babies. Furthermore, new research evidence found a link between common behavioral disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
Researches warn pregnant women that there is no such thing as a safe amount of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Studies established that consuming more than four drinks in one sitting definitely puts a fetus at risk but even far lesser amounts have a negative effect to babies too.
Expecting mommies are reminded that alcohol flows to the baby's bloodstream with a toxic level of concentration that interferes with organ development. The slightest alcohol consumption may trigger premature and still birth, miscarriage and sudden infant death.
Researchers add that mothers who previously delivered healthy babies amid alcohol consumption are still at risk. The danger of alcohol related diseases is found to increase as a woman ages. So, if you happen to know a mom-to-be or you are one yourself, heed the dangers and refuse to take the risk!
