Alcohol intake during pregnancy could result in child disability, says paediatrician

Michael Adeoye, a consultant paediatrician at the federal medical centre, Ìdí-Aba, Abeokuta, Ogun state, says consumption of alcohol by pregnant women can cause different disabilities in children.

The condition is called fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.

Adeoye said consuming alcohol during pregnancy can result in physical, intellectual and behavioural problems that can last a lifetime after birth.

He said there is no amount of alcohol considered safe during pregnancy.

The health professional said fetal alcohol spectrum disorder is a lifelong condition that can negatively affect a child’s development.

The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention said the condition can happen to someone exposed to alcohol before birth.

He said the effects can include behavioural and learning challenges such as poor attention, speech, language and motor skills.

He said even a small amount of alcohol can increase the disorder and that alcohol intake can also affect a baby’s heart and kidneys, cause low birth weight and premature birth.

“We need to educate women about the risks of drinking during pregnancy and provide them with the support they need to make healthy choices,” he said.

“Many women don’t know that even a small amount of alcohol can cause harm to their babies.

“In addition, many women may not know that they are pregnant in the early weeks of their pregnancy, and may continue to drink alcohol without realising the risks.”