Survey finds gaps in alcohol use screening, advice for pregnant people 

Only 16% of pregnant people who reported drinking alcohol in 2017 or 2019 were advised by a health care provider to stop or reduce their alcohol use, although 80% were asked about alcohol use during their most recent health care visit, suggesting missed opportunities to reduce alcohol use during pregnancy, according to a survey released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey examined prevalence of alcohol screening and brief intervention, an evidence-based primary care tool shown to prevent or reduce alcohol consumption during pregnancy. There is no known safe amount, type or timing of alcohol use during pregnancy or while trying to become pregnant, the report notes.