Understanding and Preventing Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is the leading preventable cause of non-genetic developmental disability. It occurs across Australia – in all populations where alcohol is consumed – but it often goes undiagnosed or is misdiagnosed.

Not only do people living with FASD experience a range of challenges which can affect their quality of life and that of their families, they are also at risk of long-term health issues, including cardiovascular, metabolic, allergy and immune problems. 

The Australian guide to the diagnosis of FASD assists in the diagnosis, referral and management of FASD. Accurate diagnosis allows carers to better understand the challenges faced by individuals and helps with planning appropriate interventions and supports. Early diagnosis of FASD is protective, reducing the likelihood of later secondary conditions, thereby improving life outcomes.

The risk of FASD occurring increases proportionately with the amount and frequency of maternal alcohol consumption.  Given the variety of maternal and fetal factors that can influence outcomes from prenatal alcohol exposure, there is no known safe level of alcohol consumption for pregnant women.

This is why it is important for all women who may become pregnant to be asked about the frequency and quantity of their alcohol use with a validated screening tool, such as the Audit-C for use in pregnancy.

This webinar will provide you with:

• Increased awareness of the signs of FASD in infants and children and the impact of FASD on individuals and families.
• Increased knowledge about the process for diagnosing FASD.
• Increased understanding of the risks of alcohol consumption, including at low consumption levels, for women who may become pregnant. 
• Increased awareness of the importance of talking to all women who may become pregnant about alcohol consumption.

Partner

This course is bought to you by the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE) and is part of Every Moment Matters, the National Awareness Campaign for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Women. This course is endorsed and funded by the Australian Government.

Medcast host FARE's Online Learning Modules for health practitioners - Supporting alcohol-free pregnancy and safe breastfeeding. If you would like to learn more about this free course - click here.