Routine Screening May Put Dent In FASD Cases

Routine Screening May Put Dent In FASD Cases

Wednesday, August 18, 2010 at 13:02

A physicians group in Canada is calling for screening and recording of alcohol use in women as part of regular visits to health care professionals.

Dr. Vita Senicas of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says it would help in the prevention of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.

Senicas says asking for information on alcohol use could be done in a non-intrusive, culturally-sensitive fashion.

She notes health professionals regularly question patients about sexuality, so inquiring about alcohol consumption would be less invasive.

However, Senicas says implementing the policy and providing treatment would be a challenge in remote communities, where residents routinely have difficulties with access to services.