Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Heart Defects May Be Caused by Altered Function, Not Structure

02/01/2014 18:08

Newswise — Bethesda, Md. (Dec. 30, 2013)—Recent data shows that more than 500,000 women in the U.S. report drinking during pregnancy, with about 20 percent of this population admitting to binge drinking. Even one episode of heavy drinking can lead to the collection of birth defects known as fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). Along with growth retardation, head and face abnormalities, and neurological problems, FAS also causes heart problems in just over half of those with this condition. Though much research has focused on looking for the cause of these alcohol-induced heart defects, they remain largely a mystery.

 

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