FETAL ALCOHOL SYNDROME: ETIOPATHOLOGY, DIAGNOSIS, AND PROGNOSIS FROM AN UPDATED PERSPECTIVE (2020-2025)

Abstract

The problem of constant alcohol use is extremely relevant to public health, especially in women of reproductive age, because there is a risk of harm to the fetus. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is the most severe manifestation of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), which results in physical, cognitive, and behavioral changes that, according to current literature, cannot be cured. The study in question aimed to analyze the impacts of alcoholism during pregnancy, focusing on the prevention of FAS. A narrative review conducted between March and November 2025 was used as a model, based on articles published between 2020 and 2025 in the SciELO, PubMed, and LILACS databases. The results also indicate that any amount of ethanol is toxic and that it crosses the placental barrier, remains in the fetal organism, and causes structural lesions and alterations in the central nervous system (CNS) and long-term cognitive impairment. The literature provides evidence that early detection and health education guidance on the risks are fundamental to preventing FAS, in addition to professional training to be able to provide guidance to patients and avoid complications. It is concluded that educational actions aimed at pregnant women, combined with trained professionals, are extremely important for preventing FAS, promoting care for both mother and baby.