Fetal alcohol syndrome may occur when an unborn child is exposed to alcohol consumed by its mother during pregnancy. The condition may have devastating effects on the development of the fetal brain and the child’s subsequent intellectual, physical and behavioural development.…

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of conditions that affect how a person moves and controls their muscles. It is a result of damage that occurs to the brain before birth, or in the first few months after.…

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes physical, developmental and intellectual impairment. Not all characteristics are present in all people with Down syndrome and levels of impairment can vary greatly.…

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is a genetic condition that prevents the breakdown of phenylalanine, an amino acid that plays an important role in metabolism. A build-up of phenylalanine in the body can lead to an intellectual disability.…

Autism refers to a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder that falls within a spectrum of similar disorders. People with autism spectrum disorder may have difficulties relating to their environment and interacting with people, have limited interests and may show repetitive behaviours and heightened sensitivities. Autism affects almost four times as many boys than girls.…

Cleft lip and palate are congenital conditions in which the two sides of a baby’s top lip or roof of the mouth do not join up during foetal development. Surgery is normally performed to correct the condition, usually between the ages of six months and two years.…