Question Period Note: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and Impacts of COVID-19

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is the leading known cause of preventable developmental disability in Canada. Caused by prenatal alcohol exposure, FASD has life-long impacts

The Government of Canada recognizes that FASD is a serious public health issue. Services and supports for FASD are multi-jurisdictional and multi-sectoral, and addressing FASD will take a coordinated effort across federal departments and across all levels of government.
Annual funding of $1.5 million is allocated through the Public Health Agency of Canada’s FASD National Strategic Projects Fund to collaborate with key stakeholders and partners across Canada to develop nationally applicable tools, resources, and knowledge that can be used to prevent FASD and improve outcomes for those who are already affected, including their families and communities.
The Government of Canada is continuing to explore options to work with key stakeholders and partners to address existing knowledge gaps, which will inform effective approaches to FASD awareness and prevention.
IF PRESSED ON SENATE PUBLIC BILL S-253 – AN ACT RESPECTING A NATIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDER
We look forward to debate when this Bill moves to the House.

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Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, or FASD, is a serious public health issue. It is difficult to diagnose and often goes undetected. In many cases, people with FASD require life-long assistance from a wide range of services including health, community, remedial education, and many others. Early and appropriate support can improve outcomes for people with FASD.