Final answer:
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a condition that can occur when a child is exposed to alcohol prenatally. It is characterized by abnormal craniofacial appearance, short height, low body weight, cognitive deficits, and behavioral problems. FASDs are completely preventable by abstaining from alcohol during pregnancy and while trying to conceive.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a condition that can occur when a child is exposed to alcohol prenatally. It is the most severe form of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
Signs and symptoms of FAS can include:
- Abnormal craniofacial appearance, such as a flattened upper lip, small palpebral fissures, and epicanthal folds
- Short height and low body weight
- Cognitive deficits
- Behavioral problems
The risk and severity of FASDs depend on the amount and frequency of alcohol consumption, as well as the age of the embryo or fetus at the time of exposure. Greater alcohol consumption early in pregnancy is more detrimental. However, there is no known safe amount or time to drink alcohol during pregnancy.
It is important for pregnant women to abstain from alcohol during pregnancy and while trying to conceive to prevent FASDs.