Early Intervention Helps FAS, FAE Children

New research from the University of Washington (UW) finds that children born with fetal alcohol syndrome are less likely to have problems when they receive early intervention services, the Seattle Times reported Aug. 12.

Many children who suffer brain damage because their mothers drank while pregnant have social and family problems. Previous studies have shown that at some point in their lives, 61 percent of children diagnosed with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) or the related fetal alcohol effect (FAE) were later suspended or expelled from school or dropped out; 60 percent had trouble with the law; 50 percent were imprisoned or in inpatient psychiatric or addiction treatment; 49 percent had repeated inappropriate sexual behaviors; and 35 percent had alcohol or other drug problems.

But UW researchers found that a stable, nurturing home can curb these problems. "They can be successful in life, but they have special needs," said study author Ann Streissguth, UW professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences. "We need a community that is aware of that, and when that is understood from their birth on, it is so much better for them."

Based on interviews with caregivers, the researchers determined that children from stable homes who are diagnosed early were two to four times less likely to have significant problems.

The researchers concluded that the key to the success is to get therapy for the child as soon as possible. Streissguth said even in infancy, babies who get help can better respond to sensation and control volatile emotions.

"We're saying the sooner the diagnosis, the better," Streissguth said. "It helps them get started on a track in life where they can learn behavior patterns that will be compatible with their skills. And it sends a message to parents, so they can start advocating for them in the community."

The study's findings are published in the Aug. 12 issue of the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics.