Message from Tony Clement, Minister of Health
International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Day 2006
September 9th is International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day. Countries around the world have dedicated this day to promoting awareness of the damage that can be caused by drinking during pregnancy.
There is no safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy, nor is there a safe period for a pregnant woman to drink alcohol. As well as causing physical and nervous system complications, the disorder may prove to have negative social implications for a child, and later for an adult. For example, the effects of FASD can lead to birth defects, learning difficulties, and social problems.
Approximately 300,000 people living in Canada are affected by prenatal alcohol exposure. Prevention, identification and intervention efforts are key to reducing these rates. In First Nations and Inuit communities, Health Canada is providing training and support for community programming to reduce FASD births and improve the quality of life for those affected by the disorder.
The Public Health Agency of Canada recently supported the publication of Canada's first diagnostic guidelines. These guidelines, together with the lessons learned from past projects and the development of new resources, offer a sound basis for setting future priorities for FASD.
There is no cure for FASD, but it can be prevented. If you are pregnant or might be pregnant, do not drink. By not drinking during pregnancy, you can help keep your baby healthy. If you need help to stop drinking, talk to your doctor or other health care provider as soon as possible. If you know someone who is pregnant, help support her decision not to drink alcohol during her pregnancy.
Awareness is the first step to prevention. As the Minister of Health, I encourage Canadians to join the world-wide commitment to prevent future births affected by alcohol. Please take a moment to think about how you can promote awareness for this disorder and show support for those affected by FASD in your community.
Tony Clement
Minister of Health
Government of Canada
For more information, please see the It's Your Health article on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.
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