Physical Health and Wellbeing in People with FASD

Physical wellbeing is essential for our daily functioning, especially for individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Physical health and wellbeing will change throughout our lifespans. It may also be affected by different events and environments.

Sleep, nutrition, medication, sensory and motor functioning, and physical activity are all essential elements to support physical health in people with FASD. When implemented properly, interventions that target these elements can help improve health outcomes and the overall quality of life in people with FASD.

Healthcare providers, including nurses, doctors, and other medical professionals, are often the first point of contact when health concerns arise. They play a critical role in monitoring physical wellbeing across the lifespan, coordinating care with other healthcare providers, and advocating for their patient’s needs.

Research on FASD and Physical Wellbeing

Below you can find research authored by CanFASD researchers and other partners related to FASD and physical health and wellbeing.

Beyond the Brain: The Physical Health and Whole-Body Impact of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (open access)
Chelsea Vanderpeet, Lisa Akison, Karen Moritz, Nicole Hayes & Natasha Reid
Alcohol Research, June 2025

Marijuana Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Implications for Neonatal and Childhood Outcomes
Sheryl A. Ryan, Seth D. Ammerman & Mary E. O’Connor
American Academy of Paediatrics, September 2018

FASD and Physical Wellbeing Issue Papers

Below is a selection of issue papers focused on physical health and wellbeing in people with FASD. These materials provide research insights and recommendations for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners.

Folic Acid, Choline Supplementation and FASD (2024)
Nutrition is an important aspect of a healthy pregnancy but drinking alcohol during pregnancy increases the risk of nutritional deficiencies. Emerging evidence suggests that the use of certain micronutrient supplements during pregnancy may mitigate some effects of prenatal alcohol exposure.

Cannabis Use During Pregnancy (2018)
In 2018, the Canadian government introduced legislation allowed adults to legally possess and use cannabis. This paper explores what is known about the effects of cannabis use during pregnancy.