Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a common condition that affects a substantial number of children, adolescents, and adults. Individuals can manifest FASD in a variety of ways, with many co-morbidities. They can present with birth defects, learning difficulties, intellectual disability, academic struggles, behavioral and psychiatric issues (e.g. attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, conduct disorder, depression, and drug and alcohol addiction), and difficulties with the law, with a risk for incarceration, unemployment, poverty, and dependency. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder is important because it can potentially be prevented, and early recognition and diagnosis can lead to earlier interventions and supports that are associated with improved outcomes. Prevention is important because FASD is associated with a high cost to affected individuals, families, systems of care, and communities.
Source: http://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/article-abstract/2649222
See also:
Taylor & Francis. “Fathers drinking: Also responsible for fetal disorders?.” ScienceDaily, www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/02/140214075405.htm.
Am J Stem Cells 2016;5(1):11-18 www.AJSC.us /ISSN:2160-4150/AJSC0030217 Review Article Influence of paternal preconception exposures on their offspring: through epigenetics to phenotype