About FASD

FASD stands for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. It is a lifelong disability that affects the brain and body of people who were exposed to alcohol in the womb. Each person with FASD has both strengths and challenges and will need special supports to help them succeed with many different parts of their daily lives.

Four
Per cent

Current research estimates the prevalence of FASD in the general Canadian population to be 4 per cent. FASD impacts more people in Canada than Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, and Down syndrome combined.

Symptoms
& Disabilities

FASD is a spectrum disorder that affects people in different ways. 90% of individuals with FASD also experience mental health issues and each person with FASD will have their own unique strengths and challenges.

Individuals with FASD are known for having a number of different strengths, including being friendly, likeable, affectionate, determined, hard-working, forgiving, non-judgemental and caring. They also may experience challenges with learning, memory, attention, language, social skills, motor skills, reasoning and judgement, behaviour, and/or academic achievement and they will need specialized supports to help them succeed in these areas.

Each individual will experience different challenges, and their challenges may differ depending on where they are in their life. Individuals with FASD achieve positive outcomes if their needs and challenges are addressed early on in life and they have access to supports that carry into adulthood.

Diagnosis
of FASD

A medical diagnosis of FASD can be an important first step, opening doors to effective programs, supports and strategies to help individuals affected by prenatal alcohol exposure thrive.

If you would like more information on FASD, assessment and diagnosis, next steps or support for those affected by FASD, CFAN can help.

Additional Information