FETAL ALCOHOLIC SYNDROME: BIBLIOGRAPHIC REVIEW (Atena Editora)

Abstract

Introduction: Alcohol use has a teratogenic effect throughout pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, and can lead to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), identified by abnormal facial features, growth failure and neural problems. Goal: The present study aims to review articles in the national and foreign literature on FAS, analyzing causes, consequences and possible actions to prevent alcohol intake by pregnant women. Methodology: Searches for scientific articles were carried out in the virtual databases: SciELO, Google Scholar, PubMed, published between 2010 and 2018, and the most important references for the topic in question were selected. Review: The use of alcohol during pregnancy can harm fetal development and even cause miscarriage. Affected children have phenotypic changes common to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Spectrum Disorder (FASD) or Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). Among the spectrum diagnoses, FAS is the most severe, evidenced by craniofacial deformities, microcephaly, thin upper lip, smooth philtrum, hearing loss and low birth weight. It can also favor the development of psychiatric illnesses by the mother and the child. Alcohol consumption by women is influenced by economic, personal and social factors. Conclusion: Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is dose-dependent, but there is no consensus on the minimum amount. Therefore, its prevention is carried out through abstinence. Since its incidence has increased in Brazil, it constitutes a public health problem. Therefore, immediate interventions are needed to raise awareness among pregnant women and encourage pre- and postnatal care.