Support healthy pregnancies and prevent FASD
September 9 is recognized as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day around the world since 1999. Throughout the month of September, the Saskatchewan Prevention Institute supports community initiatives across our province to raise awareness about and educate the public about the impacts of prenatal alcohol exposure.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is one of the leading causes of neurodevelopmental disorders, affecting up to 4% of Canadians. The diagnostic term describes the lifelong impacts on the brain and body caused by alcohol exposure during pregnancy.
FASD can happen in any community or group where alcohol is used, regardless of ethnicity, culture, or socio-economic status. The reasons why people may drink alcohol can vary, and each individual faces unique circumstances that can influence their ability to maintain a healthy pregnancy.
The Saskatchewan Prevention Institute’s Be the Village campaign underscores the importance of supporting healthy pregnancies in our communities. “We know it takes a village to raise a child, and that support should begin during pregnancy.”, said Laura
El Mir, Program Manager. “Whether you are a service provider, or a partner, family, friend, or community member, everyone has a role to play in preventing FASD.”
Here are some ways you can be a village of support:
Educate yourself and get involved: Learn about FASD, its causes, and its impacts. Learn about what makes it hard for people to stop drinking alcohol. Share this knowledge with others to increase awareness.
Support and advocate for pregnant people: Ensure they have access to adequate nutrition, financial resources, addictions services, and services for those who are experiencing domestic violence.
Organize and support local alcohol-free events: Reduce alcohol use around pregnant people. Host local events such as FASD awareness walks, health fairs, webinars, or workshops to educate the community and promote FASD awareness. Invite experts and individuals living with FASD to share their experiences and knowledge.
Collective support fosters FASD awareness and creates a society that supports healthy pregnancies and embraces individuals with FASD.
Join Saskatchewan Prevention Institute on International FASD Awareness Day and be a village of support to promote healthy pregnancies and prevent FASD.
The Saskatchewan Prevention Institute is a non-profit organization committed to reducing the occurrence of disabling conditions in children.