Register now for our newest webinar on March 4, 2022 at 1:00pm EST. The two recipients of this year’s Dr. Sterling Clarren FASD Research Award, Drs. Preeti Kar and Melody Morton Ninomiya, will be presenting their research. There will also be a guest appearance by none other than Dr. Sterling Clarren himself!
What is the FASD Research Award?
The Dr. Sterling Clarren FASD Research Award was named in honour of Dr. Sterling Clarren to recognize his pioneering contribution and leadership in the field of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). The award is presented annually to an individual in recognition of a completed study that has made a substantial contribution to the FASD field.
This award recognizes research that integrates policy, practice, and evidence together to improve the lives of individuals with FASD, their families, and their communities.
The award recipients are usually invited to present their research at the International Research Conference on FASD held annually in Vancouver, British Columbia. However, due to the current global pandemic, we are shifting to a virtual presentation.
What kind of research will we be hearing about?
PAE and Brain Development with Dr. Preeti Kar
Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and motor challenges, which stem from differences in brain development. Specifically, during early childhood, extensive development takes place. These challenges linked to PAE may become more apparent at this time. Prior brain research, however, has only focused on children with PAE older than 7 years of age. Dr. Kar’s is the first to investigate brain development in 2- to 7-year-old children with PAE.
Community Driven FASD Prevention with Dr. Melody Morton Ninomiya
Across the globe, many Indigenous communities are addressing alcohol use during pregnancy through collaborative and culturally relevant approaches. These approaches recognize the historical, social, political, economic, and cultural context surrounding alcohol use during pregnancy and seek to encourage the overall health and wellness of Indigenous women. Dr. Morton Ninomiya conducted this research study to determine what FASD prevention work, training, and knowledge exists in two Innu First Nations in Labrador. They are also working to ensure the FASD prevention strategy is embedded in an upcoming strategic health planning and funding envelope for these two Innu First Nations.
Who were the past award recipients?
We’ve had eight award recipients prior to this year, which now means our total is at an even 10! Our past recipients have researched everything, from attitudes and beliefs about alcohol consumption during pregnancy to therapies supporting caregivers of people with FASD. You can read all about our past winners here.
Be sure to tune in next week to learn more about this event! Register now so you don’t miss out.
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