Comparison of drinking and smoking patterns during pregnancy over a six-year interval

Changes in the drinking and smoking habits of pregnant women in Seattle, Washington, were examined in the 6-year period that followed the first American announcement of the fetal alcohol syndrome. Between 1974/1975 and 1980/1981, the number of women who reported any alcohol use around the time of the first prenatal visit dropped from 81% to 42%, whereas the number of smokers dropped from 25% to 22%; binge and heavier drinking also declined. However, among drinkers, there was no decrease in the proportion of women who reported heavier drinking. Although the proportion of women who drink during pregnancy has decreased in the past 6 years, the relative constancy in the proportion of "heavier" drinkers and binge drinkers, particularly around the time of conception, suggests the need for more attention to this important period of gestation in advice to women who are planning a pregnancy. Possible reasons for such changes in this particular community are discussed.