Sask. Prevention Institute encourages support ahead of FASD Awareness Day
An organization working to reduce the number of children suffering from the effects of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is encouraging everyone to support expectant mothers hoping to quit booze.
Saturday marks International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day, and the Saskatchewan Prevention Institute has a number of ways people can support expectant mothers. FASD occurs as a result of prenatal alcohol exposure, according to a release from the Saskatchewan Prevention Institute. Medical research cannot identify an amount of prenatal alcohol exposure that is risk-free to an unborn baby, the organization says.
“Supporting a mother-to-be to not use alcohol is an important role for partners, family and friends,” the release adds.
Enjoying activities without alcohol, and stopping or reducing personal drinking are some of the ways the organization says people can show their support. Talking and discussing FASD, and learning about addiction services and peer supports in the community are also recommended.