Pregnancy and Alcohol: The Hidden Dangers with Jackie Franks
There is no amount or type of alcohol that is safe to consume during pregnancy, and creating more awareness of that will help in the prevention of a lot of future problems, conditions, experiences with law enforcement or incarceration.
Picture this: you're expecting a baby, and everyone around you seems to think a little wine won't hurt. But what if that's not the case? In this episode of 'The Addicted Mind Podcast', host Duane Osterlind chats with Jackie Franks, the Executive Director of the Indiana Alliance on Prenatal Substance Exposure. They dive into the critical topic of alcohol consumption during pregnancy and its often-overlooked dangers.
Jackie reveals some startling statistics: one in seven pregnant individuals report drinking alcohol, and shockingly, many haven't been warned by their doctors about the risks involved. Jackie passionately discusses the severe consequences of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder (FASD), which can lead to lifelong challenges such as substance use, mental health issues, and even incarceration. She emphasizes that no amount or type of alcohol is safe during pregnancy.
The conversation also highlights the importance of prevention and awareness to combat these risks. To aid in this mission, the Indiana Alliance has launched BRAIN, an innovative online screening tool developed in collaboration with San Diego University. This tool helps assess cognitive and behavioral features associated with FASD, providing invaluable data for researchers. Jackie's dedication to educating the public stems from her experience with individuals who weren't properly diagnosed with FASD.
She underscores the need for adapting learning environments to support those affected. If you're curious about how to protect future generations from the hidden dangers of alcohol during pregnancy, this episode is a must-listen.