Anderson said that women risk exposing their fetuses to fetal alcohol syndrome often unknowingly: the most impact of ingesting even small amounts of alcohol is on the 20th day of gestation, when a woman is not generally aware of her pregnancy. Fetal alcohol syndrome can result in varying degrees of brain damage and physical abnormalities, including facial feature placement.“There’s a rainbow” of possible affects, said Anderson. “The 20th day of pregnancy is the day” that drinking alcohol by the mother can result in the physical signs of the syndrome, including low-set ears and eyes.Teens are being targeted for awareness of fetal alcohol syndrome through peer counseling, sponsored by the East Ventura Kiwanis Club and Key Club members.
Santa Paula Rotarians updated on cause, effect of fetal alcohol syndrome
August 17, 2007
Santa Paula News
Alcohol, even a small amount in the first trimester of pregnancy, can cause fetal alcohol syndrome, and an effort has been launched to make teens more aware of the risks of what is now the leading cause of developmental disabilities.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesAlcohol, even a small amount in the first trimester of pregnancy, can cause fetal alcohol syndrome, and an effort has been launched to make teens more aware of the risks of what is now the leading cause of developmental disabilities. Lynn Anderson, RN described the causes, impacts and the unique high school awareness program to the Rotary Club at a recent meeting.Anderson was introduced by ARC Ventura County CEO Fred Robinson, who told Rotarians that fetal alcohol syndrome has replaced Down syndrome as the leading cause of developmental disabilities.In the 1930s those born with Down syndrome would likely pass before their 16th birthday, but with medical advances “today they live into their 50s and 60s,” although Robinson said many will start to show signs of Alzheimer’s at about age 40. Those with Down syndrome - such as Ronnie Wood, a Santa Paula resident and champion weightlifter whose mother, Carol Woods, is the program director of the area ARC center - can live accomplished lives, noted Robinson.
