Fetal Alchohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) are a combination of neurological and physical disorders that primarily emanate from maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Individuals with FASD may show signs of memory, learning, social, behavioural and attentional problems.

In recent years, it has been discovered that it is not just the presence of ethanol in the mother’s bloodstream that causes FASD. It is a combination of genetics, susceptibility, environmental stressors, and the interaction between these various elements that results in a child with FASD. FASD is therefore a prime candidate for understanding the extent of the interaction between the external world and its impact on our genetic expression (epigenetics).

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Yet little is known about this highly prevalent condition. Some say it is present in up to 17% of school aged children. There is very little by way of educational interventions for children, and once they become adults the long term chances are bleak. Ninety percent of prenatal alcohol exposure co-occurs with multiple drug use, environmental or socioeconomic stress, mental health problems, abuse, neglect, experiences with criminal justice, welfare or child protection services. Eighty percent of children with FASD are brought up in foster or adoptive care, and the UK care system is estimated to have a prevalence of around 30% of children with FASD. This creates additional early life traumas which, in children, can result in several behavioural, affect-related, or cognitive issues, but in children with FASD interact with damaged neuronal structures. Put together, these early life traumas can create complex and non-syndrome-specific neuropsychological difficulties in children. As such, this condition is a major public health concern. 

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