Christie Petrenko and Cristiano Tapparello created the first mobile phone app for caregivers of children with FASD, called FMF Connect…Focus groups members—made up exclusively of caregivers of children with FASD— liked what they saw. “Responses were generally enthusiastic,” says Petrenko. The caregivers liked that the information was easily accessible and organized, and they could connect with others.”
– University of Rochester Newscenter
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As the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to disrupt nearly every facet of society, NOFAS would like to call attention to some of its effects on the fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) community.
The crisis is an especially difficult time for children and adults with FASD because they can have a high rate of pre-existing health conditions, low levels of health literacy, and they rely on others for access to care. Additionally, April is Alcohol Awareness Month and NOFAS is doing its part to promote awareness of prenatal alcohol exposure and FASD.
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“In a paper published in Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research, the researchers report that when alcohol-exposed male mice mated with alcohol-naïve females, the offspring displayed significant deficits in brain development. Specifically, the neocortex, responsible for complex cognitive and behavioral function, had patterning deficits. Although neither these mice nor their mothers had ever been exposed to alcohol, their brains showed changes consistent with a mouse model of FASD.”
– University of California – Riverside News
Read full article here!
MotherToBaby provides an update as of 4/8/20 on COVID-19 in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Maternal anxiety, depression, domestic violence, keeping prenatal appointments…New questions surrounding the effects the novel coronavirus has had on pregnant and breastfeeding women are answered as two teratogen information specialists (experts in exposures in pregnancy and breastfeeding) once again join host Chris Stallman, CGC.
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This article by Canada FASD Research Network states, “Challenges with sensory regulation, attention, memory, and emotional regulation make it difficult for children with FASD to understand and implement preventive health practices. The social distancing measures that have been put in place can result in feelings of depression, stress, confusion, and anxiety. This blog outlines some tips for caregivers to help you implement preventive health practices in your home.”
Read more HERE!
There is limited information so far about COVID-19 in pregnant women. Pregnant women are at higher risk from influenza and other respiratory viruses, so they are encouraged to be extra vigilant. There is no evidence that children are more susceptible to COVID-19. The CDC has information specifically for pregnant women and children.
See CDC information on children and COVID-19.
- • MotherToBaby has evidence-based resources including factsheets and podcasts, and can be reached with questions or for advice.