Prevalence of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders in 4 U.S. communities

A cross-sectional study of more than 13,000 first-grade children sought to estimate the prevalence of fetal alcohol syndrome disorders in four regions of the United States. The study—conducted between 2010 and 2016—systematically assessed the children in the four domains that contribute to the fetal alcohol spectrum disorder continuum: dysmorphic features, physical growth, neurobehavioral development, and prenatal alcohol exposure. According to the data, the conservative estimated prevalence of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders in the four regions ranged from 11.3 to 50.0 per 1,000 children. Using a weighted approach, the estimated prevalence was 31.1 to 98.5 per 1,000 children. The authors note: "These findings may represent more accurate U.S. prevalence estimates than previous studies, but may not be generalizable to all communities."