An estimated 34,000 people in New Brunswick may be affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), according to the province’s Center of Excellence.
Stacy Taylor, quality assurance training and professional development coordinator at the New Brunswick FASD Center of Excellence, said the condition affects about four per cent of the population.
That includes approximately 250 babies born with FASD in the province each year.
“If we compare FASD with some other more well-known disabilities, such as autism, cerebral palsy or Down syndrome, for example, FASD is more prevalent than those three conditions combined,” Taylor said.
Taylor said September is recognized as FASD Awareness Month, with activities taking place across New Brunswick. International FASD Awareness Day is marked on September 9.
FASD is caused by prenatal exposure to alcohol and can result in lifelong impacts on brain function and behaviour.
Taylor explained that there is no known safe amount, type or time to consume alcohol during pregnancy.
“Alcohol is alcohol, and any type of alcohol drunk at any time can impact a developing fetus,” she said.
Taylor said only about 10 per cent of individuals with FASD show physical features commonly associated with the disorder.
Diagnosis focuses on the central nervous system and involves a multi-disciplinary team that assesses 10 brain domains.
“There is absolutely no cure,” she said. “But the earlier someone receives a diagnosis, and the earlier we can put supports in place, the better the outcomes.”
The New Brunswick FASD Center of Excellence provides services under five pillars:
Prevention, diagnosis, support and intervention, training, and research. Referrals are accepted for individuals aged 0 to 18.
The centre also works with universities and health networks across the province on several research projects.
More information about FASD is available on Vitalité Health Network.
“Every person who has FASD is very unique,” Taylor said. “With the right supports and the right interventions, they can be very successful.”
She added that caregivers and professionals should adjust their approach to meet the needs of those affected.
“There can never be an expectation for someone with FASD to change their brain,” she said. “It’s up to us to modify our behaviours to support them.”
