Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Day

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders awareness day (FASD) is observed on the 9th of September to raise awareness about the importance of an alcohol-free pregnancy. It was first celebrated on the 9th of September 1999 (9/9/99). The reason behind choosing this day on the ninth day of the ninth month was to ensure that the world would remember that during the nine months of pregnancy, the safest option is to stay clear of alcohol. 
 

Theme Of The Day

In 2023, FASD Awareness Day will be held under the theme of "Uniting Our Strengths: Finding Solutions Together." This theme highlights the complexity of the condition as a problem that necessitates a multifaceted strategy for support and prevention. We can create a world where everyone with FASD has the chance to thrive by working together.
 

What Are Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders?

A group of conditions that arise from alcohol consumption during pregnancy is called fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Fetal alcohol syndrome is a chronic condition that develops in the child when a pregnant mother consumes alcohol, and this condition leads to growth problems and brain damage.
 

The Symbol For FASD Awareness

The Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, knot represents a caring community that works together to help end FASD. The term "broken cord" can apply to the cord between generations, the umbilical cord, the spinal cord, the neurological system, or the cable on a lift.
 

Types Of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

• Alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorder (ARND)
• Partial fetal alcohol syndrome (pFAS)
• Alcohol-related birth defects
• A neurobehavioral disorder associated with prenatal alcohol exposure
   

Symptoms Of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

The symptoms of this condition vary from one child to another. While one child might experience only some symptoms, another child might experience them all. 

Symptoms Of FASDs In Infants

• Abnormal facial features
• Decreased body weight
• Shorter height
• Trouble hearing
• Vision problems
• Trouble in sucking
• Sleeping issues

Symptoms Of FASDs In Childhood And Later On

• Trouble concentrating
• Delayed speech and language
• Learning disabilities
• Troubled coordination
• Hyperactivity
• Poor performance in school
• Memory issues
• Low IQ
• Trouble differentiating between reality and fantasy

Complications Due To Alcohol Consumption During Pregnancy

Various complications might arise due to drinking alcohol during pregnancy. During pregnancy, the baby's liver is not developed enough to break down the alcohol consumed. This can lead to various complications, like

• Stillbirth
• Miscarriage
• Premature labor
• Birth defects
   

Diagnosis Of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

There is no exact test available for diagnosing Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Diagnosis is often made by assessing the size of the child, examining the physical symptoms, and taking into account the history of alcohol intake of the mother during pregnancy. 
 

Treatment Of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders cannot be cured, and the symptoms of this condition will last throughout the life of the child. However, early diagnosis and treatment can help lessen the severity of the symptoms and improve the child's development. 

Treatment options for Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders include

• Medications to ease the symptoms
• Therapy (behavior and education)
• Parental training
   

Myth And Fact 

Myth: As long as alcohol is consumed moderately during pregnancy, it is safe.

Fact: Amounts of alcohol that are safe to consume while pregnant are unknown. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders can occur due to even very modest doses of alcohol in the developing fetus.
 

Myth: It's simple to diagnose FASDs at birth.

Fact: Because physical signs may not be present at birth, FASDs can be difficult to detect in the early stages. The diagnosis frequently necessitates a thorough evaluation and may not be made until a child displays behavioral problems or developmental delays.
 

Myth: FASDs are uncommon and do not commonly impact people.

Fact: FASDs are more prevalent than you might realize. In the United States, they are thought to impact roughly 1 in 20 school-age children. To lower the prevalence of FASDs, awareness and prevention are crucial.
 

Prevention Is Better Than Cure 

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders cannot be cured. However, they can be prevented. Stopping the consumption of alcohol completely while trying to get pregnant or during pregnancy can help prevent FASDs. This Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders awareness day 2023 raises awareness about this condition and how it impacts the whole life of the child. Please spread the word among women of childbearing age or pregnant about how their habit of alcohol consumption can adversely affect their child's life.