Cluster of birth defects resulting from in utero exposure to alcohol; fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) found in neonates of moderate drinkers (1 to 2 oz [30 to 59 ml] of alcohol daily)

Includes at least one abnormality in each of the following categories: growth retardation, central nervous system (CNS) abnormalities, and facial malformations

Development of associated birth defects possible in first 3 to 8 weeks of pregnancy, before woman even knows she’s pregnant

Risk of teratogenic effects increasing proportionally with daily alcohol intake

No safe level of alcohol intake during pregnancy