September is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the disability that touches individuals, families, and communities across Canada. This year’s theme, “Everyone Plays a Part: Take Action!”, reminds us that preventing alcohol use during pregnancy and supporting people with FASD isn’t about blame – it’s about shared responsibility and building a society where everyone can thrive. 

FASD affects almost every part of community life – from health care and education to justice and social services. Yet, despite growing awareness, critical gaps remain. Without strong national leadership and sustained funding, Canada continues to fall short when it comes to prevention, diagnosis, and care. 

A recent report from the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences underscores the urgency. Systemic barriers prevent people with FASD from getting the support they need – but the report also lays out clear, evidence-based recommendations to improve prevention, diagnosis, and lifelong care. A National FASD Framework could tackle these barriers head-on. 

Educating professionals 

A cornerstone of the National FASD Framework would be equipping health care providers, educators, social workers, and other professionals with the knowledge they need for prevention, diagnosis, and providing effective support to individuals and families. Consistent and evidence-based training and ongoing professional development would ensure that people with FASD receive the understanding and care they deserve across all services.   

Promoting research and knowledge translation 

FASD is complex and we need better research to truly understand this disability and its impacts. A national framework would encourage studies on prevention, diagnosis, interventions, and long-term outcomes, outline funding requirements for additional research,  and ensure evidence is translated into practical solutions that help communities and professionals across Canada.   

Setting national standards   

Consistency is key. The framework would establish national guidelines and standards so that individuals with FASD receive accurate diagnoses, timely interventions, and coordinated care – no matter where they live in Canada. Standardized approaches would also help health care and social services work more effectively across sectors.   

Raising awareness about the risks of alcohol use in pregnancy  

The framework create a plan to  prioritize public education about the risks of alcohol use during pregnancy and reduce stigma for those with FASD. By increasing understanding, communities can foster support rather than blame, creating environments where everyone can thrive. It would also outline policy changes to alcohol consumption and marketing that could support prevention efforts.  

Identifying additional measures 

Finally, the framework would look beyond existing approaches to identify new ways to improve outcomes for people with FASD. This could include policies to enhance social supports, access to services, inclusive education, and legal-system accommodations – ensuring that all Canadians with FASD can reach their full potential. 

Everyone plays a part – but the government leads 

FASD is a recognized public health concern, yet Canada still lacks a comprehensive National FASD Framework. This FASD Month, everyone has a role to play – but the Federal Government holds the most critical responsibility. Coordinated leadership and sustained investment are essential to ensure people with FASD are supported, included, and able to thrive. 

If you care about this cause, reach out to your Member of Parliament and tell them about the urgent need for a National FASD Framework. Every voice counts – together, we can push for the leadership and resources needed for the FASD community.