Each year, the CanFASD Prevention Network Action Team (pNAT) reviews new academic research focused on preventing alcohol use during pregnancy. This annual review helps ensure that prevention strategies across Canada – and beyond – are informed by the latest science and evidence.
In FASD Prevention: An Annotated Bibliography of Articles Published in 2024, the team identified 107 relevant articles from around the world. Most studies came from the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Using CanFASD’s four-level prevention framework, the team explored emerging trends, innovative approaches, and persistent challenges in the field. Here’s a snapshot of what we learned this year.
Understanding prevalence and influences
Thirty-two studies focused on alcohol use in pregnancy, revealing wide variation across countries. Researchers identified key influences such as stigma, stress, financial hardship, systemic racism, and lack of knowledge about risks.
Social determinants of health – including poverty, rural living, and education level – also shaped alcohol use patterns and access to support.
Level 1 Prevention: Raising Awareness
Efforts at the first level of prevention focused on increasing awareness through public education and health promotion. Strategies included:
- Mass media and awareness campaigns
- Mobile apps, text messaging, and online resources
- Enhanced alcohol warning labels
- Research into barriers and enablers of guideline use among health professionals
Level 2 Prevention: Early Identification and Support
At the second level, studies emphasized improving screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment within health and social service settings. Promising approaches included:
- Integrated clinical software to streamline screening
- Incentive-based text messaging programs
- Culturally informed interventions that respect community context and needs
Levels 3 & 4 Prevention: Holistic and Ongoing Support
Research at these levels focused on treatment and long-term supports for pregnant and parenting women. Strategies included:
- Live-in treatment programs
- Family-centred and trauma-informed care
- Wrap-around supports such as housing, parenting programs, and doula services
Policy and Systems Change
At the systems level, research highlighted how alcohol policy – including taxation, availability, and labelling – can contribute to prevention efforts.
Scholars also called for:
- Equitable, gender- and trauma-informed care across service systems
- Efforts to reduce stigma and discrimination
- Policy approaches that prioritize compassion and accessibility
Why this matters
By reviewing and synthesizing the latest evidence each year, the team helps ensure that prevention efforts in Canada are effective, equitable, and supportive. Integrating research into practice and policy strengthens support for women, families, and communities, making prevention work more impactful than ever. Read the full annotated bibliography to explore all 107 studies and the insights they offer.