Applying the WHO ICF Framework to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD): A Forensic and Clinical Perspective on Disability Assessment and Patient Support.

Background/

Objectives

This article aims to investigate the multifaceted effects of alcohol on neurophysiopathological development from gestational stages through adult life and the consequent dynamic-relational challenges in individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). FASD, resulting from prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE), is characterized by a range of neurological, cognitive, behavioral, and sometimes physical impairments. This article explores how alcohol and its toxic metabolites cross the placenta, inducing direct cellular toxicity and epigenetic alterations that disrupt critical neurodevelopmental processes such as neurogenesis and brain circuit formation. Clinically, individuals with FASD exhibit diverse deficits in executive functioning, learning, memory, social skills, and sensory-motor abilities, leading to significant lifelong disabilities. A central focus is the application of the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) criteria to comprehensively frame these disabilities. The ICF's biopsychosocial model allows for a multidimensional assessment of impairments in body functions and structures, limitations in activities, and restrictions in participation, while also considering the crucial role of environmental factors.

Methods

PubMed and Semantic Scholar databases were searched for relevant papers published in English.

Results

This article highlights the utility of the ICF in creating individualized functioning profiles to guide interventions and support services, addressing the limitations of traditional assessment methods.

Conclusions

While the ICF framework offers a robust approach for understanding and managing FASD, further research is essential to develop and validate FASD-specific ICF-based assessment tools to enhance support and social participation for affected individuals.