Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to collectively refer to a range of disabilities caused by prenatal exposure to alcohol (See examples below). It is not a diagnostic term.

Prenatal exposure to alcohol influences the development of the unborn baby and may cause physical, mental and behavioral impairments. These impairments are permanent and lifelong, and often lead to problems with achievement and social functioning for the person.

Research suggests there is no known safe amount of alcohol to drink during pregnancy. When a woman drinks alcohol during her pregnancy, the normal growth and development of the baby can be permanently effected.

The permanent changes to the baby due to prenatal alcohol exposure may be further compounded if the mother has poor nutrition, smokes, is in poor health, or uses other drugs.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is the leading cause of mental disability in North America. Many individuals are unaware of how alcohol use during pregnancy can cause permanent brain impairments.

Everyone has a part to play. Partners, family members, friends, service providers and the community at large all need to get involved in addressing this complex disability.