space.discussion.Prevention


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=__Prevention__= = In pregnancy prevention is the first step in protecting against the effects of alcohol, and should include the following: =

== Primary prevention — actions that avert a health 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 — actions that identify persons 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. ==

== ﻿Pregnant women generally are receptive to suggestions about controlling their 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. == == Prevention efforts should target women before and during their childbearing years, as well as those who influence such women, including their partners, families, and the community. All efforts should be: **//family-centred and culturally sensitive//**, to address the pregnant woman as well as her partner and family in the context of their community; and **//comprehensive//**, to draw on all services appropriate to the often complex social, economic and emotional needs of these women. ==

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