Understanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs) encompass a range of diagnoses resulting from prenatal alcohol exposure. In different countries, there are varying terminologies and diagnostic criteria, such as Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), Partial Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (pFAS), Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (ARND), among others. While FASD is not a life sentence, it is a brain-based disability that affects various aspects of a person's life. Diagnosis is crucial, but it can be challenging to obtain in many regions. Additionally, FASD can be easily confused with other conditions like ADHD, autism, bipolar disorder, and sensory processing disorder. Though the impacts of alcohol exposure can be wide-ranging due to the timing and extent of exposure, every individual with FASD has a unique profile and potential for success.