Overview
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is the most severe form of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) caused by alcohol consumption during pregnancy. It results in a combination of distinctive facial features, growth delays, and permanent neurological and developmental problems. In Korea, awareness of FAS is gradually increasing, and healthcare providers are emphasizing the importance of alcohol-free pregnancies. Pediatric hospitals and child development centers provide multidisciplinary treatment, focusing on early diagnosis, developmental support, and lifelong care for affected children.
What is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome?
FAS is a preventable congenital disorder that occurs when a fetus is exposed to alcohol during pregnancy. It is characterized by:
- Facial abnormalities
- Growth restrictions
- Central nervous system dysfunction
Unlike other forms of FASD, FAS presents with more pronounced and recognizable features, making it easier to diagnose in early childhood.
Symptoms
- Facial abnormalities: smooth philtrum, thin upper lip, small palpebral fissures (eye openings)
- Growth problems: below-average weight, height, and head size
- Neurodevelopmental issues: poor memory, learning difficulties, low IQ
- Motor and coordination problems
- Behavioral challenges: impulsivity, attention deficit, poor judgment
- Speech and language delays
- Vision and hearing problems
Causes
- Maternal alcohol use during pregnancy is the sole cause.
- Severity depends on timing, amount, and frequency of alcohol consumption.
- Genetic and nutritional factors may influence susceptibility.
Risk Factors
- Drinking alcohol during pregnancy (even in small amounts)
- Lack of awareness about pregnancy during early stages
- Family or cultural pressure to consume alcohol
- Limited access to prenatal care and counseling
Complications
- Intellectual disabilities
- Academic underachievement
- Social and behavioral difficulties
- Increased risk of substance use disorders later in life
- Lifelong dependency and need for assisted living in severe cases
Prevention
- Avoid alcohol entirely during pregnancy
- Public awareness campaigns in Korea promoting alcohol-free pregnancies
- Prenatal education by gynecologists and obstetricians
- Family and community support for pregnant women struggling with alcohol use
Treatment Options in Korea
Diagnosis
- Facial recognition and growth pattern analysis
- Neurodevelopmental and psychological tests
- Brain imaging (MRI/CT) for structural abnormalities
- Detailed prenatal history review
Medical Treatments
- No cure exists, but symptom management helps improve quality of life:
- Stimulants for ADHD-like symptoms
- Antidepressants and antipsychotics for emotional regulation
- Nutritional therapy for growth support
Behavioral & Supportive Therapies
- Early childhood speech, occupational, and physical therapy
- Special education services for cognitive impairments
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for emotional and behavioral challenges
- Parent and caregiver counseling for home-based support
Rehabilitation and Support in Korea
- Developmental centers offering long-term follow-up
- Government health programs promoting maternal health
- NGOs and local support groups for families affected by FAS
