Ernest L. Abel

Many pregnant women are advised to give up alcohol because of the risk that the baby might develop birth defects such as fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). In the following viewpoint, Ernest

L. Abel argues that the adverse effects of heavy alcohol consumption on developing fetuses have been well documented, but there is little evidence showing occasional or moderate drinking (one drink a day) to be harmful. While he recommends that women who drink and are pregnant should take steps to reduce their alcohol consumption, he also asserts that groundless fears of alcohol have caused unnecessary stress and anxiety among pregnant women. Abel is a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, Michigan. He is the author of numerous books and articles on...