By Saskatchewan Prevention Institute

FASD – Let’s Talk About It

Sep 8, 2021 | 8:32 AM

Internationally, September 9 is a day devoted to raising awareness about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Throughout Saskatchewan, communities hold a variety of events to recognize the importance of this day. The Saskatchewan Prevention Institute hopes that you join us in raising awareness about FASD and challenging the stigma associated with FASD.

FASD is caused by prenatal exposure to alcohol. Current research suggests that up to 4% of individuals in Canada (1,406,069 people) live with harm from prenatal alcohol exposure (Canada FASD Research Network).

FASD – Let’s talk about it

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a diagnostic term used to describe impacts on the brain and body of individuals prenatally exposed to alcohol. It is a lifelong disability with mental, physical, learning, and behaviour problems. Each person with FASD has both strengths and challenges and may need special supports to help them succeed with many different parts of their daily lives (Canada FASD Research Network, 2018).

Pregnancy and Alcohol

Raiders win 5-3

Defensive scoring leads Raiders over Wheat Kings

5h ago

GST Holiday

Federal government's two-month GST holiday begins

20h ago

Imminent need

Council set to discuss possible location for homeless shelter on 15th Street

Dec 14, 2024

Alcohol is legally and culturally accepted in Canadian society and is widely used socially. Alcohol is classified as a teratogen. A teratogen is anything a pregnant person is exposed to that can impact the development of the baby. While it may be easy for many women to stop drinking during pregnancy, for others it can be difficult. There are many reasons why women drink in pregnancy, some of which can include: coping with violence and stress, mental health challenges, unintended pregnancy, confusing messages about pregnancy and alcohol, and peer or partner pressure.

Why is it important for us to understand FASD?

FASD can happen in any community where alcohol is consumed, irrespective of ethnicity or socio-economic status. Blaming and shaming someone for consuming alcohol doesn’t address the issue; instead, it perpetuates stigma. However, understanding the reasons for alcohol consumption and creating a supportive environment for expecting women contributes to the prevention of FASD.

Soumya Mishra, FASD Prevention Coordinator at the Saskatchewan Prevention Institute, states “It is time we start seeing FASD through a community lens and build a supportive environment for moms-to-be.” We are all responsible for healthy pregnancies and children in our communities. Learn more at https://skprevention.ca/alcohol/fasd-lets-change-the-conversation/.

The Saskatchewan Prevention Institute is a non-profit organization founded in 1980. Our focus is to reduce the occurrence of disabling conditions in children. We raise awareness by providing training, information, and resources based on current best evidence.