INTERNATIONAL NATIONAL FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDERS DAY
INTERNATIONAL FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDERS DAY
International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Day (FASD) is celebrated on September 9 at 9:09 a.m. This important awareness day is a chance for the world to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking while pregnant.
#FASDay
Today is the 9th day of the 9th month and we are highlighting the 9 months of pregnancy and the risks of alcohol consumption. Our goal is to promote education, prevention, and support for those affected by prenatal alcohol exposure, which causes lifelong physical, behavioral, and learning disabilities. First celebrated on 9/9/99, FSAD Day is a kind reminder to women around the world to refrain from drinking alcohol for nine months during pregnancy.
FASD is an umbrella term covering several conditions, including Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), Partial FAS, and Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (ARND). We can summarize FASD is the overall collective of lifelong physical, behavioral, and cognitive impairments that occur due to prenatal alcohol exposure. Some of the "impairments" of FASD range from learning disabilities, speech and language delays, visual and hearing problems, or problems with critical organs. Sadly, FASD also includes a high risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, and sudden infant death syndrome.
There is no known safe amount of alcohol, no safe time to drink, and no safe type of alcohol during pregnancy. The best line of defense is knowing the importance of drinking while pregnant and what you can do to ensure a healthy birth and baby.
5 WAYS TO SUPPORT INTERNATIONAL FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDERS DAY
Use person-first language (e.g., "person with FASD") and focus on abilities rather than limitations.
Organize virtual or local events like "Mocktails for Mums" to raise awareness about alcohol-free pregnancies.
Donate to organizations providing support to individuals and families living with FASD.
Encourage local, state, or national leaders to issue proclamations or support legislation like the FASD Respect Act.
Share educational posts using hashtags like #FASDMonth, #FASDay to increase awareness.
HISTORY BEHIND FASDAY
International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Awareness Day (FASDay) was created by Bonnie Buxton, her husband Brian Philcox, and Teresa Kellerman in early 1999. They chose September 9, 1999 at 9:09 a.m. as the first year of celebration to symbolize that women should not drink alcohol during the nine months of pregnancy.