Preventing Drug Abuse in Pregnant Women

Regarding “Moms: No ‘Safe’ Time for Cocaine” (Nov. 28), I commend you for your efforts in the fight against perinatal drug exposure. The information was not only accurate, but very timely. Society is now realizing the devastating effects that maternal substance abuse can have on the development of the fetus.

The article points to the “crying need for educational programs” for women of childbearing age as well as young children. Since 1985, the Sheriff’s Substance Abuse Narcotics Education (SANE) Unit has been providing drug prevention education for elementary school children.

This fall, the SANE Unit began a program titled “Drugs, Pregnancy, and You,” aimed at high school students in Los Angeles County.

As the title suggests, the program addresses the issue of perinatal drug exposure. The program features a 16-minute video called “What Mother Takes, Baby Gets.” Also featured are speakers from the local medical community who are actively involved in treating drug abuse cases of this kind. The program is presented at high school assemblies and also includes a segment that allows the students to ask pertinent questions of the medical experts on hand. The program has been very well received by students and administrators alike.

Once again, I appreciate The Times including articles concerning this issue. The dissemination of accurate information about perinatal drug exposure is vital to society.

SHERMAN BLOCK

Sheriff

County of Los Angeles