Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a lifelong disability caused by prenatal alcohol exposure that can affect how a person learns, communicates, regulates emotions, and navigates everyday life. FASD affects each person differently, and individuals may have different strengths, needs, and experiences.

FASD impacts everyone. It affects individuals and their families, but also caregivers, friends, schools, workplaces, service providers, communities, and the systems that support people. Building understanding and awareness of FASD helps create communities where everyone can be supported, included, and understood.

FASD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disabilities in Canada. It is estimated that at least 4% of Canadians, about 1 in 25 people live with FASD.

FASD does not have one specific “look.” While some people with FASD may have characteristic facial features, many do not have any visible physical signs of the disability.

FASD is diagnosed through a comprehensive assessment by a multidisciplinary team of professionals. The assessment looks at a person’s development, strengths, and areas of difficulty, including areas such as learning, memory, attention, communication, motor skills, and adaptive functioning. The team also considers medical and developmental history, physical features, and prenatal alcohol exposure.

Yes. FASD is a lifelong disability, so it can affect people throughout their entire lives. The ways FASD affects a person may change over time as their circumstances, responsibilities, and environments change.

Adults with FASD may experience challenges with areas such as memory, organization, communication, emotional regulation, employment, relationships, finances, housing, or navigating services. They may also have significant strengths and abilities.

With appropriate understanding and support, adults with FASD can build on their strengths, develop skills, and lead meaningful lives.

Yes. FASD is a lifelong disability caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. The way FASD affects a person can change throughout their life, and their support needs may change as they grow and their circumstances change.

FASD awareness helps us better understand the experiences, strengths, and needs of people affected by FASD. Greater awareness can reduce stigma and misconceptions, strengthen support for individuals and families, and help communities create more inclusive and responsive environments.