10% OF PREGNANT WOMEN DRINK ALCOHOL, STUDY REVEALS

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According to a new report from the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 10% of pregnant women in the United States and 18% of pregnant women, aged 35 or older, say they drank alcohol in the past months. Among all pregnant women who reportedly drink alcohol, about a third reported binge drinking. That is, they consumed at least four alcohol beverages on one occasion.

Drinking alcohol during pregnancy is a health concern because it can cause birth defects and developmental disabilities in babies. The CDC also says drinking alcohol during pregnancy increases the risk of complications like marriage break up, still-birth and premature birth.

Women who are pregnant or might be pregnant should be aware that there is no known safe level of alcohol that can be consumed at any time during pregnancy. This is in accordance with a study Cheryl Tan, an epidemiologist at the CDC’s National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities co-researched. Tan stresses that all types of alcohol, including red & white wine, beer and liquor should be avoided.

So, in order to reduce excessive alcohol consumption among the entire population, communities can limit the number of places where alcohol is sold in a given area. Increase in alcohol taxes can also be a remedy. Doctors can also ask their patients a few questions about how much alcohol they drink. This will help medical practitioners to identify people who may be drinking too much and provide counselling when necessary.

Credits: KAILANI FAATIMOH OMOLOLA

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