Module 3: Risk Factors for FASD
Maternal Lifestyle
The risk of FASD tends to increase with each pregnancy. For example, in one study, the incidence of FAS among older siblings was 170 per 1,000. Among younger siblings, the incidence was 771 per 1,000. Thus, there is a high risk of FAS among siblings if an older sibling is diagnosed with FAS.11
Other lifestyle factors may also play a part. For example, alcohol use may interfere with nutrition. Poor nutrition can damage the fetus and may increase the harmful effects of alcohol. In addition, interaction with other drugs may influence the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure.
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