NCJ Number
159792
Date Published
1991
Length
73 pages
Annotation
A 1990 survey of a sample of pregnant women giving birth in six large public hospitals in Texas gathered information regarding the characteristics, needs, and drug use patterns of these women; the characteristics of their newborn infants; and the availability and use of drug treatment for the women.
Abstract
The sample included 1,401 of the 1,679 women who gave birth in the hospitals during the study period. Data were collected by means of interviews, reviews of medical records, and assays of umbilical cord blood. Results revealed that nearly 30 percent of the women in the sample received inadequate or no prenatal care. In addition, 28 percent used alcohol, cigarettes, inhalants, an illicit drug, or some combination during their pregnancy. Fourteen percent drank alcohol while they were pregnant, and 19 percent smoked cigarettes while they were pregnant. Seven percent used an illicit drug while pregnant, and 2 percent did so during the month before giving birth. Findings indicated that a significant proportion of Texas children are at risk for developmental, emotional, and physical problems as they grow up due to poor prenatal care and drug exposure in their perinatal environment. Findings also indicated the need for renewed prevention efforts and constructive solutions for early intervention. 44 references