What are the major features of fetal alcohol syndrome?

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a condition resulting from alcohol exposure during pregnancy that leads to a range of physical, behavioral, and cognitive impairments in the child. The major features of FAS include distinctive facial features such as a smooth philtrum, thin upper lip, and small eye openings. Growth retardation is also a key feature, as affected individuals often have lower birth weights and may struggle to achieve normal growth milestones later in life. Additionally, neurodevelopmental disorders are prevalent, impacting cognitive functions and leading to challenges in learning, memory, and executive functioning.

The other options include features that are not characteristic of fetal alcohol syndrome. For instance, while hearing loss and cardiovascular defects can occur in other contexts or syndromes, they are not primary features associated with FAS. Similarly, short stature, obesity, and hypertension as a grouping do not directly relate to the core characteristics of fetal alcohol syndrome. Lastly, while learning disabilities are part of the cognitive impairment seen in FAS, skin conditions are not recognized as a hallmark of the syndrome, making the second choice the most aligned with the defining features of fetal alcohol syndrome.