Overview
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) refers to a group of conditions that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These conditions may include physical abnormalities, learning difficulties, behavioral issues, and developmental delays. In Korea, increasing awareness of maternal and child health has brought FASD into focus, with hospitals and clinics working on early detection, counseling, and long-term management for affected children. Korean healthcare providers emphasize prevention, as the disorder is entirely avoidable through complete abstinence from alcohol during pregnancy.
What is FASD?
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is not a single condition but an umbrella term for various effects of prenatal alcohol exposure. It includes:
- Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) – the most severe form, characterized by facial abnormalities, growth delays, and central nervous system damage.
- Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (ARND) – cognitive and behavioral challenges without distinct physical features.
- Alcohol-Related Birth Defects (ARBD) – structural issues affecting organs such as the heart, kidneys, and bones.
In Korea, the incidence of FASD is not precisely documented, but healthcare professionals stress prevention and early diagnosis as part of maternal and child health policies.
Symptoms
Children with FASD may present with a wide range of symptoms, such as:
- Distinctive facial features (smooth philtrum, thin upper lip, small eye openings)
- Low birth weight and slow growth
- Learning disabilities and delayed development
- Poor memory and attention span
- Difficulty with problem-solving and reasoning
- Hyperactivity and impulsivity
- Speech and language delays
- Social and behavioral difficulties
Causes
The only cause of FASD is alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Alcohol passes through the placenta and disrupts the baby’s brain and organ development. Factors that influence severity include:
- Amount and frequency of alcohol consumed
- Stage of pregnancy when alcohol exposure occurred
- Maternal health and nutrition
Risk Factors
- Drinking alcohol during pregnancy (even small amounts)
- Lack of awareness about pregnancy during early alcohol consumption
- Family history of alcohol abuse
- Socioeconomic challenges and lack of prenatal care
- Stress and maternal mental health conditions
Complications
Without early support, FASD can lead to long-term complications such as:
- Intellectual disabilities
- Poor academic performance
- Difficulty maintaining employment
- Legal or behavioral problems
- Mental health disorders (depression, anxiety, conduct disorder)
- Increased risk of substance abuse later in life
Prevention
FASD is 100% preventable by avoiding alcohol during pregnancy. Preventive steps in Korea include:
- Public health campaigns about the risks of drinking during pregnancy
- Counseling services for women planning to conceive
- Nationwide educational programs for healthcare providers and communities
- Support groups for women struggling with alcohol use
Treatment Options in Korea
Diagnosis
- Prenatal screening through maternal history of alcohol use
- Developmental assessments in early childhood
- Physical examinations to identify facial and growth abnormalities
- Neuropsychological evaluations for cognitive and behavioral functions
Medical Treatments
- No cure exists for FASD, but symptoms can be managed with:
- Medications for ADHD-like symptoms (hyperactivity, impulsivity)
- Antidepressants or antianxiety medications for emotional regulation
- Nutritional support to promote growth and development
Surgical or Advanced Therapies
- Surgery is not usually required for FASD, but children with related congenital defects (e.g., heart defects) may undergo corrective procedures in Korean hospitals.
Rehabilitation and Support
- Speech therapy for communication challenges
- Occupational therapy to improve daily living skills
- Behavioral therapy for emotional regulation
- Special education programs tailored for learning difficulties
- Parental guidance programs to support families in caregiving
