Describes certain elements which can affect the fetus and the developing infant. These elements include toxins, lead poisoning, alcohol, smoking, and drugs (both legal and illegal). (Author/DB)

Efforts of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to combat AIDS are reported. Health implications of the viral disease are summarized, along with economic costs, research achievements, the importance of education, and appropriate and workable solutions. (LB)

Discusses some of the legal questions raised when infants and children of drug-abusing mothers are exposed to crack. Courts have generally moved in a punitive direction against these mothers although some critics warn against intervention that is too fast. Foster care system has been overwhelmed by these difficult cases, and many child welfare…

Discusses legislation aimed at prevention, identification, and treatment of prenatal exposure to controlled substances and the consequences of such exposure. Coercive state intervention can include involuntary civil commitment, child protection; and criminal prosecution. Such intervention raises constitutional issues of privacy and…