This archive report was first published on 18 August 2019.
Published on August 18, 2019, a study conducted at Rutgers University has shed light on the effects of moderate to heavy drinking during pregnancy.
The research, published in the journal Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research, found that binge and heavy drinking may trigger long-lasting genetic changes in adults.
Scientists analyzed DNA samples from 30 pregnant women and 359 children to identify alcohol-induced changes.
The study discovered changes in two genes: POMC, which regulates the stress-response system, and PER2, which influences the body's biological clock.
Infants exposed to alcohol in the womb had increased levels of cortisol, a potentially harmful stress hormone that can suppress the immune system and lead to ongoing health issues.
Lead author Dipak Sakar noted, 'Our research may help scientists identify measurable indicators such as altered genes or proteins that predict the risks from prenatal alcohol exposure.'
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders can include physical and intellectual disabilities, as well as behavioral and learning problems.
Heavy alcohol use during pregnancy can also lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or a baby being born early.
According to medics, there is no safe amount of alcohol to drink while pregnant, and early intervention treatment services can improve a child's development.
