Ottawa – Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, said: “We come together to recognize Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day and Month. For 25 years, September 9 has been dedicated to raising awareness about this critical issue that affects individuals and families across Canada in far-reaching ways. This date, the nineth day of the nineth month, honours the nine months of pregnancy.
“FASD is a lifelong disorder caused by prenatal alcohol exposure that can affect both brain and body development. People with FASD may need support with motor skills, physical health, learning and memory, and may be more likely to experience higher rates of mental health and substance use challenges. The impacts of FASD are far reaching and further, it is difficult to diagnose and often goes undetected.
“This year’s theme reminds us that, when it comes to raising awareness around FASD, Everyone Plays a Part. As family members, friends, neighbours, educators, health professionals and employers, we can all help to support individuals with FASD, promote healthy pregnancies, and work to prevent FASD. Together we can build a society that better understands and empowers people with FASD, as well as their families and caregivers, through advocacy, training and education. These efforts, big or small, collectively contribute to a healthier, more equitable future for everyone.
“Our government is working with partners to advance action on FASD awareness and prevention, including through the FASD National Strategic Projects Fund (NSPF), which provides funding for national projects focussed on prevention, education and knowledge exchange. This includes funding for the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS) to undertake a comprehensive scientific assessment of FASD, as well as funding for the Canada Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Research Network (CanFASD) to design and pilot an online FASD training course tailored to the needs of children program workers.
“This FASD Awareness Month, let’s take action today for a brighter, healthier future for all. We encourage all Canadians to learn more about FASD, participate in community events and engage in conversations about healthy pregnancies. If you or someone you know is pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you can support them by going alcohol-free and encouraging them not to drink alcohol.“