Vol. 3, No. 1 , 1997, Page 7

INTRODUCING... OUR PROFESSIONAL ADVISORY BOARD: Ann P. Streissguth, Ph.D.

Crime Times is pleased to introduce in this issue Dr. Ann Streissguth, a member of our highly distinguished Professional Advisory Board.

ANN P. STREISSGUTH, Ph.D., is the Director of the Fetal Alcohol and Drug Unit at the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle. The unit conducts research on fetal alcohol and drug effects across the life span, disseminates information on fetal alcohol and drug effects, provides consultation for individuals suffering from disabilities due to prenatal alcohol exposure, and offers training on the effects of teratogens (substances that damage the fetus) on human behavior.

Streissguth has perhaps done more than any other researcher to bring the dangers of prenatal exposure to alcohol, cocaine, and other drugs to the attention of professionals and the public. Michael Dorris, author of the acclaimed book on FAS, The Broken Cord, calls Streissguth "the foremost theoretician and psychological researcher" on FAS, saying that "she [has], as much as anyone, defined the subject."

The pioneering studies of Streissguth and colleagues have provided the first in-depth information about the long-term behavioral deficits of individuals with FAS (See Crime Times, Vol. 1, No. 1/2, Page 3 and Crime Times, Vol. 3, No. 1, Page 5) have confirmed the dangers of even "social" drinking during pregnancy; and have educated professionals about the effects of prenatal use of drugs ranging from cocaine to aspirin. In addition, Streissguth is noted for her outreach and assistance to thousands of children with FAS, and to families coping with this disorder.

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