1 in 8 Pregnant Women Drink Alcohol; Experts Warn of Serious Fetal Consequences

Medical experts are raising alarm over new data showing that more than 1 in 8 pregnant women report consuming alcohol during pregnancy. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) may be significantly more prevalent than previously recognized, potentially affecting more children than autism diagnoses. These disorders can cause permanent developmental, behavioral, and physical disabilities that impact a child throughout their lifetime. Healthcare providers emphasize that no amount of alcohol is safe during pregnancy, as it can damage the developing fetus at any stage of gestation.