Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is defined as which of the following?

• A. A condition caused by nicotine during pregnancy
• B. A group of birth defects that can affect an unborn baby exposed to alcohol
• C. A milder form of fetal development delay
• D. A viral infection during pregnancy

Answer: (B)

Fetal alcohol syndrome is a group of birth defects that can occur when an unborn baby is exposed to alcohol during pregnancy. Alcohol can cross the placenta and disrupt the baby’s development, leading to a pattern of physical abnormalities, growth problems, and neurodevelopmental issues. This description captures the actual condition caused by alcohol exposure, which is why it’s the best choice. It’s not about nicotine or a viral infection, and it isn’t simply a milder delay—FAS represents a specific set of defects tied to alcohol exposure (and it sits at the more severe end of the fetal alcohol spectrum).