Health alcohol taboo for expectant mothers many unknown

"Every glass damages": alcohol taboo often unknown to mothers
Every year, thousands of babies develop severe physical and mental damage as a result of the alcohol intake of pregnant women already in the womb. Not even half of Germans know that expectant mothers risk the health of their child through the consumption of beer, wine and co.

Fatal consequences of alcohol during pregnancy
According to expert opinion, too few people are aware of the fatal consequences of alcohol during pregnancy. According to a news agency dpa reports, only 44 percent of Germans know that expectant mothers who drink beer, wine or schnapps risk permanent damage to their child. "Many think a glass does no harm. But every glass damages, "said the pediatrician Andrea Benjamins, who cares for small patients with the so-called Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) at the Social Pediatric Center Hannover.

Alcohol has fatal consequences. (Photo: Kzenon / fotolia)

Severe physical malformations
In Germany, it is estimated that over 350,000 people are living with FAS caused by their mother's alcohol consumption. According to experts, especially in the early phase of pregnancy, alcohol can lead to severe physical malformations and, later on, impaired growth, neurological abnormalities and mental developmental disorders. A chronic alcohol consumption of the mother is particularly dangerous. For a long time, self-help associations and care facilities have called for greater preventive efforts and more help for children and adults with alcohol-related harm.

Negative health consequences of alcohol consumption
Alcohol is unhealthy - not just for pregnant women and their adolescent children. The consumption of beer, wine and schnapps can damage nerves and organs, promote the development of obesity and obesity, as well as mental disorders and cancer. In addition, the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack increases. One study has recently shown that there is a difference between the sexes. Thus, alcohol harms the hearts of women especially strong. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the negative health consequences of alcohol consumption are a significant global problem. (Ad)