When substance-exposure issues are intermingled with other high-risk-factors like low socioeconomic status, poor nutrition, lack of appropriate stimulation, neglect, abuse, and violence, it becomes impossible to isolate the various contributions to an infant or child's failure to thrive. Many of these issues are societal and beyond the individual's direct control. Drug exposure is not. Both maternal abuse and environmental contamination can be addressed by the individual. Deliberate exposure of an infant or child to drugs is a form of child abuse that is preventable. Information and education are, it is hoped, the keys to effective intervention.