Prevention

[]

=Prevention = Prevention is clearly the first line of defense against the effects of alcohol in pregnancy, and should include the following:

**Primary prevention** — Taking action to stop the problem before it occurs. In the case of FAS/FAE, this would include informing the public, particularly young people, about the dangers of drinking during pregnancy and on a broader level, addressing determinants of health.

**Secondary prevention** — Identify who is at risk. Strategies should include screening and early intervention programs and services for pregnant women and women of childbearing potential who may be at risk for having a child with FAS/FAE.

**Tertiary prevention** — actions that prevent recurrence of the condition through treatment and attempts to lessen the cognitive, behavioral, and social impact of FAS/FAE. Strategies should include diagnosis and programs designed specifically for children with FAS/FAE and their caregivers, as well as treatment for women and their partners who already have one FAS/FAE child and plan to have more children.

Since pregnant women are receptive to suggestions about alcohol consumption during pregnancy, the health care professional is presented with an excellent opportunity to encourage behavioural change. Early recognition of women who drink alcohol during pregnancy and appropriate counselling are the cornerstones of treatment. Health professionals can play a key role in reducing the risks associated with alcohol use during pregnancy. (14)