cktimes.ca Archives: FASD Day September 9, 2010
Originally posted on: Tuesday, September 7, 2010Every year on September 9, International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Day is observed. People are called to remember the dangers of drinking during pregnancy and the struggles of families dealing with FASD. The first FASD day was celebrated on September 9, 1999. This day was chosen because it is the ninth day of the ninth month. This reflects the nine months of pregnancy during which women should abstain from alcohol.
Alcohol is a teratogen, which means it is toxic to the baby’s developing brain. Since the brain is developing in all 9 months of pregnancy there is no safe time to consume alcohol. Many women do not recognize they are pregnant in the early weeks. This is why it is important not to drink even when you are planning a pregnancy.
FASD causes permanent central nervous system (brain) damage. FASD affects individuals differently, depending on the timing and amount of alcohol consumed by their mother. Alcohol can stunt fetal growth, cause distinctive facial features and cause other physical, mental and behavioural problems. Individuals may have learning disabilities, attention deficits, poor memory and poor impulse control. Often the damage is not noted at birth but becomes evident as the child grows.
Children with FASD can learn but may need extra help and different strategies. Their struggles are lifelong.
Join us at the Chatham Kent Public Health Unit in recognizing this important day. Prevention of FASD benefits everyone. For more information about FASD contact Motherrisk at 1-877-FAS-INFO.
