Consortium Fetal Alcohol Syndrome © 12/2000 TCHP Education Consortium

babies born to alcoholic mothers sustain enough damage from in utero exposure to alcohol to be diagnosed with full FAS. (2) Synopsis Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is the single largest cause of mental retardation in the Western world. It is all the more tragic given that FAS is the only congenital cause of mental retardation that is 100 % preventable. The cost to society as well as the individuals and families dealing with this disorder is staggering. Why is it that it persists? Why is it that despite all that’s known about FAS and the less obvious but equally devastating Fetal Alcohol Effects (FAE), health care professionals are still not particularly savvy in this area? As health care professionals there is a lot we can do to educate our patients and connect families with resources to deal with this disorder. This booklet is a great step in the direction of educating yourself so you can make a difference in the lives of the families you deal with