The lay of the land

Abstract

While much is known about effects of prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) on brain and behavior, little is known about long-term health outcomes following PAE. This chapter reports results of a community-based health survey (n = 541) developed by three adults with FASD. The findings dramatically demonstrate that Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is not just a brain and behavior issue but rather a “whole body” diagnosis: individuals with FASD have higher frequencies of a wide range of health conditions and develop these earlier than individuals in the general population. An understanding of these results will ensure timely and appropriate diagnosis and treatment for individuals with FASD.

Topics & Concepts