Statement
September 9, 2024 | Ottawa, Ontario | Public Health Agency of Canada
We are gathered today to recognize Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day and Month. For the past 25 years, September 9 has been dedicated to raising awareness of this serious issue that significantly impacts individuals and families across Canada. This date, the 9th day of the 9th month, honours the 9 months of pregnancy.
FASD is a chronic condition caused by prenatal alcohol exposure that can affect brain and body development. People affected by FASD may need support with motor skills, physical health, learning and memory, and may be more vulnerable to mental health and addiction problems. The effects of FASD are significant, and it is difficult to diagnose and often goes unnoticed.
This year’s theme reminds us that when it comes to raising awareness about FASD, Everyone plays a role. As family members, friends, neighbours, educators, healthcare professionals and employers, we all have a responsibility to support those affected by FASD, encourage healthy pregnancies and work to prevent FASD. Together, we can foster understanding and accountability for those affected by FASD, their families and caregivers through advocacy, training and education. Big or small, these collective efforts support a healthier and more equitable future for all.
Our government is working with partners to advance awareness and prevention of FASD, including through the National Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Strategic Projects Fund, which funds national projects focused on prevention, education and knowledge exchange. This includes funding the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS) to undertake a comprehensive scientific assessment of FASD, as well as funding the Canadian Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Research Network (Canada Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Research Network, CanFASD) to design and pilot an online FASD training course tailored to the needs of childhood program workers.
This FASD Awareness Month, let’s take action now for a brighter, healthier future for all.
We encourage all Canadians to learn about FASD, participate in community events, and start conversations about healthy pregnancies. If you or someone you know is pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you can support them by abstaining from alcohol and encouraging them to abstain from drinking alcohol.
The Honourable Ya’ara Saks, PC, MP
Contact persons
Yuval Daniel
Director of Communications
Cabinet of the Honourable Ya’ara Saks
Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health
819-360-6927
Media Relations
Public Health Agency of Canada
613-957-2983
media@hc-sc.gc.ca
