Recent research shows that people don’t know enough about the dangers to developing babies of drinking in pregnancy and consequences for their future lives.
The latest Department of Health guidance says that pregnant women and women trying to conceive should avoid alcohol altogether, but if they do drink they should never have more than 1-2 units once or twice a week.
A dedicated meeting on drinking in pregnancy in East Sussex is taking place between members of the NHS and other organisations on 4 February from 1.30pm to 4.30pm, at the The Hastings Centre, The Ridge.
The meeting will include the story of a mother who gave birth to a baby with Foetal Alcohol Syndrome (FASD).
It will also discuss the diagnosis of FASDs, how children are affected and what their future needs may be.
Annie Singer, Head of Children’s Services for NHS East Sussex Downs and Weald and NHS Hastings and Rother says,
“This event is the first of its kind in this area, and it is hoped that it will increase awareness and understanding of the problem of Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders.
One of the main aims of the meeting is to improve the way that the NHS and other organisations work with families”.
Drinking too much alcohol during pregnancy can cause a range of distinct physical and facial features in babies, as well as damage to the nervous system and development of the brain.
The amount of damage varies, depending on the amount of alcohol consumed but is always significant.
The meeting on 4 February is a joint venture with The FASD Trust (www.fasdtrust.co.uk)
Some 100 delegates are expected from health, education and social services.
