This is a permanent neurological condition with which the person with FAS must suffer for an entire lifetime. So the actual costs are thought to be much higher. These are results of a very recent survey of over 100,000 women which was conducted by the Center of Disease Control and Prevention and was published in the August 1998 issue of the journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Other mental health issues include suicidal threats and attempts, panic attacks and auditory and visual hallucinations. All of these problems seem to increase with age.
Secondary disabilities are preventable when protective factors are in place.
An IQ below 70, early diagnosis, eligibility for state services, absence of domestic violence, and stable home environment are all protective factors, according to Streissguth's research.