What is Bill S-253?
Bill S-253: An Act respecting a national framework for fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.
In October 2022, the Honourable Senator Mohamed-Iqbal Ravalia introduced Bill S-253 in the Senate of Canada. This Bill outlines the development of a national framework designed to support Canadians with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, their families, and their caregivers. The Bill is currently at second reading in the Senate, and hopefully will be referred to Committee soon.
Where are we now?
Bill S-253 is currently making its way through the legislative process and has been referred to the Social Affairs, Science and Technology committee for further study. This is when committee members look in detail at the Bill, examining each section and then report back to the rest of the government which will then be debated and put to a vote.
While the Bill is it committee stage it is a crucial time for convincing parliamentarians of its importance, particularly the committee members.
We need your help to write to committee members to express your support of a National FASD Framework.
Why do we need a National Framework for FASD?
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is the leading known cause of neurodevelopmental disability in Canada, affecting 4% of the population. The prevalence of FASD is greater than Autism, Down Syndrome, and Cerebral Palsy combined.
Not solely a healthcare issue, FASD intersects with homelessness, substance use, education, criminal justice, mental health, child welfare, social services, family health, and more.
The statistics are alarming. Recent studies show 90% of people with FASD will experience mental health issues. They are over 20 times more likely to face substance use challenges. And 35% of teens with FASD report suicidal ideation, with 13% reporting at least one serious suicide attempt in the past year.
Due to its complicated nature, a systemic, coordinated, evidence-based approach to FASD prevention, diagnosis, intervention, and lifetime support is vital. We need a National FASD Framework that ensures that all people with FASD and their families have full and equitable access to the resources they need.
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National FASD Framework
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Express your support for a National FASD Framework on social media and at your events.
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What is FASD?
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a lifelong disability impacting the brain and body of people who were exposed to alcohol during fetal development. Each individual with FASD is unique and has areas of both strengths and challenges and will need supports to help them succeed in their daily lives.
What would a National Framework look like?
Bill S-253 requires that the Minister of Health create and implement a framework for FASD that:
- Educates health care and other professional on FASD prevention, diagnosis, and support
- Promotes research and knowledge translation;
- Sets national standards for FASD prevention, diagnosis, and support;
- Raises awareness of FASD and the risks of alcohol consumption in pregnancy; and
- Identifies any other measures necessary to improve outcomes
A National framework would be made in consultation with other ministers, representatives from provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous communities, and relevant stakeholders including self-advocates, caregivers, service providers, and support people.
A National FASD Framework should be person-centred, include first-person perspectives, be culturally appropriate for the diversity of Canada’s population, and reflect the needs of Canada’s northern, rural, and remote communities. It would also ensure that critically needed multilevel supports are available for pregnant women and new mothers and their children, so that prevention of FASD that is effective, respectful and addresses social determinants of health receives attention and action.
Why now?
We cannot afford to wait much longer to address FASD at a national level. The annual cost per case of FASD is estimated at $27,000 and the incremental cost per case of FASD over a lifespan is estimated at $1.1 million. Many of the costs associated with FASD can be reduced with the implementation of effective leadership for social policies and intervention and support programs. These numbers don’t take into account the intangible costs of FASD, such as the cost of pain, suffering, stress, and stigmatization.
The COVID-19 pandemic has only heightened the challenges that this population is facing. Canada is in desperate need for our leadership to establish a plan to support people with FASD, their families, pregnant and parenting couples, and those who assist them.
How can you help?
Community Members
Ask members of the Social Affairs, Science and Technology committee to support Bill S-253. Learn as much as you can about FASD in your profession and within your area. Talk to your friends and family members to raise awareness.
Government Representatives
Express your support for Bill S-253 publicly and talk about this issue amongst your colleagues and party members. Reach out to us at info@canfasd.ca to learn how FASD interacts with your field and your constituents.
Contact us at info@canfasd.ca for information about how to support a National FASD Framework in Canada