Only a small number (less than of 10%) of babies are born with what are known as the FASD 'sentinel features'. All three features present will be indicate prenatal alcohol exposure, but it's important to note that the presence of absence of these features do not indicate the severity or mildness of the disorder.
Facial features may include:
• Small eyes – the width of the eyes from inner to outer corner may be shorter than average.
• Thin upper lip – the upper lip may be unusually thin compared to other babies.
• Smooth or flat philtrum – the smooth or flat ridge between the nose and upper lip is a common feature.
• Low birth weight– babies with FASD may be born with a lower-than-average birth weight.
• Small head size (microcephaly) – the head circumference may be smaller than normal.
• Slower physical growth – after birth, they may grow more slowly than other infants.
• Alcohol withdrawal symptoms – newborns with FASD may experience withdrawal symptoms such as jitteriness, high-pitched crying, and sleep difficulties.
Individuals with FASD are 100x more likely to be diagnosed with physical health conditions than the general population. Physical health comorbidities are common and can include:
• Motor skill challenges – coordination
• Cardiac / heart defects
• Joint deformaties or abnormalities
• Hearing and vision issues
• Dental issues such as tooth decay and malformation may require specialized interventions and support.
• Bowel and bladder functionality
• Congenital and chromosomal conditions
• Inflammation – early onset problems with arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.
Understanding the complexities of comorbidities in FASD is crucial because it allows healthcare professionals and support systems to provide comprehensive and integrated care to individuals with FASD, addressing both their FASD-related needs and their co-occurring health conditions. By recognising and addressing these comorbidities, professionals can develop tailored interventions and treatment plans that take into account the unique challenges and strengths of each individual.
Getting both a physical and mental health overview also helps to validate the experiences of individuals and their families. It reduces stigma and misconceptions by emphasising that the challenges faced by individuals with FASD are not a result of personal shortcomings but rather a complex interplay of prenatal alcohol exposure and associated comorbid conditions. This understanding promotes empathy, support and a more inclusive society that recognises the multifaceted nature of FASD and its impact on overall health.
FASD, MENTAL HEALTH, AND COMORBIDITIES, July 27, 2023 – Edmonton and Area Fetal Alcohol Network website.
This important research paper, developed by three adults with FASD (Myles Himmelreich, CJ Lutke and Emily Travis-Hargrove), reports the results of a community-based health survey which interviewed over 540 people with FASD. The findings dramatically demonstrated that Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is indeed a 'whole body' diagnosis.
Individuals with FASD have higher frequencies of a wide range of health conditions and develop these earlier than individuals in the general population. An understanding of these results will ensure timely and appropriate diagnosis and treatment for individuals with FASD. Click here to find out more.
This report is currently only available as a chapter in a book – The Routledge Handbook of Social Work and Addictive Behaviours. Note that this book is available at the IHC library in Wellington (they can post it out if you order online).
