INDIANAPOLIS-Indiana's Prenatal Substance Abuse Commission has recently reported that fewer than 10 percent of all pregnant women are screened for substance abuse issues, making it difficult to provide treatment to those who are in need of assistance. State Senator Sue Errington (D-Muncie) serves on the commission helping to develop and recommend a coordinated plan to improve early intervention and treatment for pregnant women who abuse alcohol or drugs or use tobacco. Errington says that through increased awareness, proper screenings and treatment, the state can aid in reducing unhealthy pregnancies and premature births.

"Screening and simple interventions early in pregnancy are the keys that will lead to healthier pregnancies and healthier babies," said Errington. "I am confident that through the recommendations made to the legislature we can take a more active role in preventing prenatal substance abuse."

The two year study found that an estimated 20 percent of Hoosier women used tobacco, while 10 percent used alcohol, and nearly 6 percent used other drugs during pregnancy.

To combat these alarming statistics, Errington and the commission have recommended the Indiana Legislature designate ongoing funding for the training of prenatal providers and their staff on universal screenings, interventions and monitoring for women who screen positive. The commission has also suggested that the state establish a routine survey to study the prevalence of alcohol, tobacco and drug use by pregnant women. A final recommendation is to establish an ongoing cross-agency committee to monitor existing resources and carry on the work of the commission.
 
The use of alcohol, drugs or tobacco during pregnancy is a leading cause for premature births. Premature delivery increases the costs for each birth, with newborn nursery costs for a premature baby reaching $50,000 on average. Over half of the approximate 90,000 deliveries each year in Indiana are Medicaid funded.

Errington said she believes the commitment of the state to address this problem will pay off many times over both fiscally and in terms of healthier mothers and babies.

Download the commission's report at www.senatedemocrats.in.gov/files/PSACFinalReport.081509.pdf.

For more information on Sen. Errington, her legislative agenda or other State Senate business call 1-800-382-9467 or visit www.senatedemocrats.in.gov.

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