FASD Awareness Day hopes to make an impact in Prince Albert

According to research gathered by the Saskatchewan Prevention Institute any type of alcohol can harm a baby and there is no known safe amount to drink while pregnant.

When a pregnant mother drinks, her unborn baby has the same blood alcohol level as she does. At that point, the unborn baby’s liver is still growing so it takes a long time to get rid of alcohol, giving it more time to damage the baby’s developing cells which can cause incurable physical and brain damage.

The Institute’s statistics show half of pregnancies are not planned, and because of this, many women drink alcohol without knowing they’re pregnant. Most stop once they find out.

“It’s not because it’s done purposely. Sometimes, moms don’t know that they are pregnant, and, it happens,” said Debert.

At that point, it is difficult to determine if damage has been done, but the Institute advises people to talk with their doctor.

Only 10% of children born with an FASD have visible signs. Mental, physical, learning and behavioural problems may show up later in life which means many people go without getting the help they need to succeed. That proves how important early diagnosis is.

“Be aware of what can happen. Be aware of what you’re doing,” said Debert. “That’s all we can do.”

The institute says the best way to help a pregnant woman with not drinking, is to offer support and stopping or reducing their own drinking.

“We want everyone to be informed. Not just moms or moms to be, but men as well. They’re a factor in this,” said Debert.

Saskatchewan prevention institute in Saskatoon, FSD prevention in Prince Albert, addictions.

asoloducha@panow.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow

by Alex Soloducha

FASD Awareness Day hopes to make an impact in Prince Albert

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