Definition: FAS is a birth defect causing symptoms similar to mental retardation and is a direct result of heavy alcohol consumption during pregnancy. FAS results in some or all of the following:facial malformations such as a small head circumference, flattened midface, sunken nasal bridge and flattened and elongated philtrum; central nervous system dysfunction; and varying degrees of major organ system malformations. (National Inslitute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism /NIAAA) Children affected with FAS will often present with behavior problems and significant learning disabilities.
Also Known As: FAE - Fetal Alcohol Effect
