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Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

What are Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) are a group of conditions that can occur in a person who was exposed to alcohol before birth. These effects can include physical problems as well as problems with behavior and learning. Often, a person with an FASD has a mix of these problems. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is the most severe of these disorders.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to prevent FASDs, a woman should not drink alcohol while she is pregnant, or when she might get pregnant. This is because a woman could get pregnant and not know for up to 4 to 6 weeks. In the United States, nearly half of pregnancies are unplanned. If a woman is drinking alcohol during pregnancy, it is never too late to stop drinking. Because brain growth takes place throughout pregnancy, the sooner a woman stops drinking the safer it will be for her and her baby. FASDs are preventable if a baby is not exposed to alcohol before birth.

What to know about FASD

CDC FASD

American Academy of Pediatrics

NIH Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Resources for support and information

FASD United

MCFARES - Empowering Individuals with an FASD and Their Families in Michigan

Children’s FASD System of Care

Michigan Governor's Proclamation:

September 9, 2024: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Day

Think before you drink graphic

News Items

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