Alcohol use by expectant mothers can lead to problems with the mental and physical development of their children — a condition known as fetal alcohol syndrome. Research suggests an incidence of 0.2 to 1.5 per 1,000 live births, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Costs for care of individuals affected by fetal alcohol syndrome in the U.S. have been estimated at $4 billion annually.

Fetal alcohol exposure affects brain structure in
children.