Alcohol use during pregnancy can result in a broad range of adverse reproductive and infant health outcomes. Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is the most serious condition related to maternal consumption of alcohol during pregnancy and is characterized by intellectual and cognitive deficits, growth deficiencies, central nervous system dysfunction, craniofacial abnormalities and behavioral maladjustments. A recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study comparing binge drinking among pregnant and nonpregnant women in the U.S. between 1991-1995, found that among various population subgroups of women, pregnancy-related reduction in binge drinking was smallest among African American women. This suggest that African American women are at an increased risk of adversely affecting their pregnancy outcomes. A formative evaluation of FAS prevention messages targeting African American women was conducted in order to develop culturally and ethnically appropriate prevention materials to raise women's awareness and knowledge regarding behaviors that contribute to FAS and other alcohol-related birth defects. To ensure that materials and messages would appeal to their intended audience three important steps were undertaken: 1) exploratory research was conducted to determine the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs of the intended audience; 2) message concepts were developed and tested with the audience to determine if they were clear, believable, and relevant; and 3) audience reaction to messages and prototype materials were assessed prior to final production and implementation. The study resulted in print advertisements, posters, and brochures for use in FAS prevention campaigns.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this poster session, the learner will be able to: 1. Recognize risk factors for fetal alcohol syndrome and other alcohol-related birth defects in African American women. 2.Articulate the procedures for a formative evaluation of prevention messages. 3.Define binge and at-risk drinking levels
Keywords: Binge Drinking, Ethnic Minorities
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.