Tuesday, September 9
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Awareness Day

September 9, 2008 was International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day.

FASD describes the range of health, developmental, intellectual and social concerns that may result from prenatal exposure to alcohol. This devastating disorder affects 1 in 100 babies and there is no cure for FASD. “Of all the substances of abuse (including cocaine, heroin and marijuana), alcohol produces by far the most serious neurobehavioral effects in the fetus” (Institute of Medicine Report to the U.S. Congress, 1996). There is no known safe amount of alcohol that can be consumed during pregnancy; no alcohol is best. Family members and friends can help by providing encouragement, offering non-alcoholic drinks and abstaining from drinking around pregnant women. 

Encourage the pregnant women in your life to avoid alcohol. This might be the best gift you can give to their unborn children. For information or support, go to the following websites: www.peelregion.ca/health/fasd, www.fasworld.com,

Read the media release.