Module 2: Effects of Alcohol on the Fetus
Introduction
Alcohol is a teratogen, which is a substance that can cause birth defects. These defects can include:
- Brain damage
- Central nervous system (CNS) damage
- Physical damage, such as growth deficiencies and organ defects
"Of all the substances of abuse (including cocaine, heroin, and marijuana), alcohol produces by far the most serious neurobehavioral effects in the fetus."1
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