Nearly eight out of every 1,000 children worldwide are born with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), which increases their risk of developing physical, mental, behavioural and learning disabilities, according to researchers. The study estimated that one out of 13 women, who consumed alcohol at any point or frequently during pregnancy, gave birth to a child with FASD.
"FASD prevalence estimates are essential to effectively prioritise and plan health care for children with FASD who are often misdiagnosed," said Svetlana Popova, Senior Scientist at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Ontario. 
"Most of these children will require lifelong care, so the earlier they have access to appropriate therapy and supports, the better their long-term health and social outcomes will be," Popova added.

Nearly eight out of every 1,000 children worldwide are born with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), which increases their risk of developing physical, mental, behavioural and learning disabilities, according to researchers. The study estimated that one out of 13 women, who consumed alcohol at any point or frequently during pregnancy, gave birth to a child with FASD.
"FASD prevalence estimates are essential to effectively prioritise and plan health care for children with FASD who are often misdiagnosed," said Svetlana Popova, Senior Scientist at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Ontario. 
"Most of these children will require lifelong care, so the earlier they have access to appropriate therapy and supports, the better their long-term health and social outcomes will be," Popova added.