International FASD Awareness Day: raising awareness of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

International FASD Day, observed annually on September 9 each year, is a day dedicated to raising global awareness about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).

The date was chosen to symbolize the nine months of pregnancy and serves as a critical reminder of the risks associated with drinking alcohol during pregnancy and the importance of supporting families and individuals affected by FASD.

What is FASD?

In the US, an estimated 1-5% of first graders have FASD, a lifelong condition caused by exposure to alcohol during pregnancy that can affect a child’s brain development, leading to challenges with learning, behavior, and physical health.

The effects vary, but common symptoms include difficulties with attention, memory, speech, and motor skills. In some cases, children may also experience behavioral issues or developmental delays.

International FASD Day aims to raise awareness, helping to reduce stigma and ensure that individuals and families receive the care they need.

FASD prevention

Preventing FASD begins with understanding. For expectant mothers, this means having access to clear, supportive information about the risks of consuming alcohol during pregnancy.

It is generally understood that there is no safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy, and that avoiding alcohol entirely is the best way to protect an unborn baby from harm.

For those who may find it difficult to stop drinking, seeking help is crucial. Support services and resources, such as counseling and advice, can make a significant difference in helping women make healthy choices for themselves and their baby.

Alcohol testing for your peace of mind

In situations where alcohol use may be a concern, reliable alcohol testing plays a crucial role in safeguarding both mother and child from the long-term effects of FASD.

Whether you have concerns about a loved one misusing alcohol, or simply want a test for other personal reasons, AlphaBiolabs can help.

Our Drug & Alcohol Nail Test offers a discreet and easy way to test for alcohol use with only fingernail clippings or toenail clippings required.

Simply order your test kit online and we’ll mail it to you immediately. Follow the instructions included in your test kit to collect your nail clipping samples and return them to our ISO 17025-accredited laboratory for analysis.

Your secure, confidential results will be emailed to you in 7-10 business days.*

For more information or to speak to our friendly, discreet Customer Services team, call 727-325-2902 or email info@alphabiolabsusa.com.

*From receipt of samples into our laboratory.