About FASD

FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) is a term that is coming into popular usage by professional groups, government, support groups and service providers. It is a term that describes the full range of disorders and effects that can occur in a person whose mother drank during pregnancy.

The disorders encompassed in FASD include FAS, Partial FAS, Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (ARND), and Alcohol-Related Birth Defects (ARBD).

In 2002 Health Canada's National Advisory Committee on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome/Fetal Alcohol Effects cautioned that:

1.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term that suggests that alcohol is a factor in a child's development. It is not a diagnostic term.

2.

Clinicians may use the term FASD for the purposes of screening and referral that should lead to a more formal interdisciplinary diagnostic process (using established definitions of FAS and related conditions).

3.

FASD cannot be used when it is known that the mother did not drink alcohol during pregnancy.

4.

Parameters for the use of the term outside of the medical/clinical community need to be developed. In the medical community, only people with the broader knowledge of FAS diagnostic terminology (IOM) should use this term.

To find out about how often FAS occurs, the costs of FAS, or how to diagnose FAS, see our FAQ's section or link to the Public Health Agency of Canada.

What Is Being Done About FAS In The Province of BC?

FASD: A Strategic Plan for British Columbia:

Divided into three sections (The Importance of Early Intervention, An Integrated, First-of-its-kind Plan for Improvement, and Building Community Partnerships), this document discusses the Province's commitment to prevent Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.

What Is Being Done About FAS Nationally?

FASD: A Framework For Action:

Developed by Health Canada's National Advisory Committee on FAS/FAE (Co-chaired by The Asante Centre's own Dr. Julianne Conry), this Framework is a tool to guide future action on FASD in Canada. It is designed to inspire the planning and implementation of policies and programs that prevent FASD - through the efforts of those in communities, provinces, territories and at the national level. The Framework for Action aims to strengthen the system of supports and services in order to meet the needs of those affected by this lifelong disability.