Prevalence and characteristics of alcohol consumption and fetal alcohol syndrome awareness--Alaska, 1991 and 1993.

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a leading preventable cause of birth defects and mental retardation in the United States (1). To reduce alcohol exposure to the developing fetus and to modify health-related behaviors, public health professionals and policy makers require effective methodologies to identify at-risk populations and develop strategies for preventing this problem. In Alaska, the prevalence of FAS is higher than the national average (2). Because of the need for information to assist in planning prevention programs, identifying training needs for service providers, and monitoring changes in factors related to FAS in target populations, the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services (ADHSS), the Indian Health Service (IHS), and CDC have conducted surveys to measure relevant knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors (KABBs) in selected populations in Alaska. This report summarizes survey findings during 1991 and 1993 regarding the prevalence of alcohol consumption by and characteristics of women of childbearing age in Alaska and FAS-related KABBs in Alaska residents.