Children exposed to alcohol during fetal development exhibit
changes in brain structure and metabolism that are visible using various
imaging techniques, according to a new study being presented today at the
annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).
Alcohol use by expectant mothers can lead to problems with
the mental and physical development of their children—a condition known as
fetal alcohol syndrome. Research suggests an incidence of 0.2 to 1.5 per 1,000
live births, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Costs
for care of individuals affected by fetal alcohol syndrome in the U.S. have
been estimated at $4 billion annually.