People often wonder how many people are affected by Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). Unfortunately, the numbers are higher than what most people would imagine. In addition, a recent research study shows the rates of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome / FAS and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders / FASD are higher than previously thought. Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders / FASD is the leading cause of developmental disabilities in the United States. Below are some unfortunate and surprising statistics.
- Up to 1 in 20 US school children may have FASDs [1]
- In Indiana, 848 babies are born each year with a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) [2]
- In Indiana, 42,400 people are living with a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) [2]
- For some groups, prevalence of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome / FAS is estimated to be 6–9 per 1,000 children. Previous estimates were 0.5–1.5 per 1,000. [3]
- For some groups, prevalence of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders / FASD is estimated to be 2–4% or 24-48 per 1,000 children. Previous estimates were 10 per 1,000 or 1%. [3]
Find more information on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) in our resource section, as well as throughout our website.
Sources:
- CDC Vital Signs, February 2016. American Journal of Preventative Medicine, November 2015.
- Susan Elsworth, “Just So You Know: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders”, May, 2017
- Philip A. May, et al, “Prevalence and Characteristics of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders,”, Pediatrics, Volume 134, Number 5)
