Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a collection of
interrelated syndromes that occur in children born to mothers who ingested
alcohol during her pregnancy. The occurrence of FASD is 1 in 100 in the
Canadian population.
The Public Health Agency of Canada (2004) states that FAS is
the most common and preventable non genetic cause of mental disability in the
Western world.
According to the Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission
(2004), it is estimated that in Canada, approximately one child is born with
FAS every day, and there is an estimated 1-3 cases of FASD per 1000 live births
Partial Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (pFAS) is a limited
expression of the more pronounced FAS. Individuals often exhibit the typical
facial characteristics, but not the full range of symptoms.
Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (ARND) is
characterized by central nervous system problems, neuro-developmental
abnormalities, and cognitive and behavioural deficits.
Click here to download a FASD brochure for more information