A review of policies on alcohol use during pregnancy in Australia and other English‐speaking countries, 2006

Abstract

It is well accepted that heavy alcohol consumption during pregnancy is a risk factor for fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, but research findings for exposure to low to moderate alcohol levels during pregnancy are equivocal, allowing a range of interpretations. The 2001 guideline from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) for low‐risk drinking for “women who are pregnant or might soon become pregnant” recommends fewer than seven standard drinks per week, and no more than two standard drinks on any one day. This position has polarised health professional and consumer opinion in Australia. The NHMRC guidelines on alcohol are scheduled for review in 2007. We surveyed the alcohol and pregnancy policies and clinical practice guidelines of Australia and six other English‐speaking countries to identify current policy. Documents were obtained through Internet searches and direct contact with the relevant organisations. The policies and guidelines varied both across and within countries, and the NHMRC guideline, while not universally supported in Australia, is in step with the policies of the United Kingdom and Canada. Research is needed to elucidate the true association between low to moderate alcohol consumption and fetal harm, the impact of different policies on rates of maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy, and any untoward outcomes of an abstinence message, to inform and underpin future policy development in Australia.

A review of policies on alcohol use during pregnancy in Australia and other English‐speaking countries, 2006

“…In reply : Morley and colleagues and Miers raise a number of interesting discussion points. As we reported in our policy review, the Canadian, United Kingdom and Australian guidelines have similar intent but differ in emphasis 1 . Health Canada's policy position is that, although abstinence is the prudent choice, fetal risk is relative to the amount of alcohol consumed and is minimal with low levels of maternal alcohol intake.…”

Alcohol consumption during pregnancy and its effects on neurodevelopment: what is known and what remains uncertain

“…In relation to this, the question as to whether prenatal alcohol consumption is responsible for a large and potentially preventable burden of neurodisability remains unanswered at this time. This ‘evidence’ gap seems to us at least partly responsible for the conflicting recommendations from policy makers, ranging from the urging of total abstinence during pregnancy [4] to suggestions on restricted consumption [5].Of course, we acknowledge the complexity of policy‐making in this area: evidence alone is rarely sufficient to guide policy, which is shaped by culture and politics as well.…”

Impacts of national surveillance for uncommon conditions in childhood

“…The APSU study has led to further research, including an international audit of FAS diagnostic services and a systematic review of intervention for FAS, and to the development of educational resources for health professionals. APSU investigators have been appointed to the NHMRC Alcohol Guidelines Review Committee; the Inter‐Governmental Committee on Drugs Working Party on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders; and the RACP Alcohol Policy Committee, all of which will inform education, research and policy development 40 …”