Authors:
Muggli E, O'Leary C, Forster D, Anderson P, Lewis S, Nagle C, et al.
Authors notes:
BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. 2014;14(1):302
Keywords:
Child health, Cohort studies, Epidemiology, Epigenetics, Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, Genetics, Pregnancy, Prenatal alcohol exposure
Abstract:
Despite extensive research, a direct correlation between low to moderate prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders has been elusive.
Conflicting results are attributed to a lack of accurate and detailed data on PAE and incomplete information on contributing factors.
The public health effectiveness of policies recommending complete abstinence from alcohol during pregnancy is challenged by the high frequency of unplanned pregnancies, where many women consumed some alcohol prior to pregnancy recognition.
There is a need for research evidence emphasizing timing and dosage of PAE and its effects on child development.
Using detailed, prospective methods of data collection, the AQUA study will comprehensively examine the effects of low to moderate alcohol consumption throughout pregnancy on child health and development, including the role of key mediators and confounders.
These data will ultimately contribute to policy review and development, health professional education and information about alcohol consumption for pregnant women in the future.