Support and follow-up for children born with prenatal alcohol and drug exposure – in a Nordic perspective

A birth defect caused by either alcohol or drug exposure during pregnancy lasts a lifetime, but there can be a big difference between how severe the birth defect is and what consequences it has for the exposed individual.

The spectrum of birth defects caused by alcohol and drug exposure during pregnancy is wide and can vary from mild to severe. Also, not all symptoms in the spectrum relate exclusively to alcohol and drugs. It can therefore be difficult to diagnose people with birth defects caused by alcohol and drug exposure during pregnancy, as it depends on many factors, and specialized knowledge in healthcare. But without the right diagnosis, it can be difficult to get the right support and follow-up in the system, which the individual needs and which can have a great impact on the life of the individual and his or her family.

This project is a continuation of the work that was done in the project Use of alcohol and other drugs during pregnancy – in a Nordic perspective, with a focus on the pregnancy period.

Project aims and target group

The aim of the project is:

• To develop a report with recommendations for the Nordic countries under the theme of support and follow-up for children born with prenatal alcohol and drug exposure. We will among other things touch upon the topics:
  • Knowledge in healthcare
  • Diagnosis
  • Support and follow-up.

The primary target group for the project is politicians and officials, but the project also addresses researchers, clinicians and other relevant healthcare professionals, NGO’s and other service providers for whom the work is relevant.

Results

The report How to strengthen the focus on children affected by prenatal alcohol exposure to help them lead a good life? A Nordic report with recommendations was published in September 2022.