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NLIS 3
September 8, 2000
(Health and Community Services)

 

Department acknowledges Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Day

The Department of Health and Community Services is recognizing Saturday, September 9 as International Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Day (FAS).

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is a condition which affects some children born to women who consume alcohol during pregnancy. This syndrome can result in a child being affected by a range of birth and developmental conditions including physical, mental and neurological problems. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is 100 per cent preventable - women who are pregnant or contemplating pregnancy need only to abstain from alcohol consumption. Women are cautioned that there is no safe time during pregnancy to consume alcohol.

In 1999, the first FAS Day was recognized worldwide. The focus of the day is the number nine in recognition of the nine month gestation period for the unborn. On September 9 at 9:09 a.m., people around the world will pause for a minute to reflect on the effects of consuming alcohol during pregnancy.

Anyone interested in seeking information about FAS can contact the Department of Health and Community Services at (709) 729-0719 or their family physician. A national toll-free information line called Motherisk, 1-877-327-4636, is also available for anyone seeking information about alcohol or substance abuse including, information for women both during and after pregnancy.

Media contact: Melissa Watton, (709) 729-2788.

2000 09 08 3:20 p.m.


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