In South Africa, the City of Cape Town’s Health and Social Development and Early Childhood Development Departments are taking action to prevent Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) by organizing awareness campaigns in high schools. These departments aim to educate communities on the effects of FASD and promote a unified approach to finding solutions together.
The Impact of FASD
FASD is a range of physical, cognitive, and behavioral impairments caused by exposure to alcohol in the womb. Drinking during pregnancy not only affects the baby but also impacts communities at large. FASD is the only preventable mental health disorder. However, once a baby is affected by a mother’s drinking, it is incurable.
Key Message of the Campaigns
The campaigns aim to emphasize that alcohol consumption should be avoided while planning to conceive, during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding. Councillor Patricia van der Ross, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, states that “Alcohol is one of the leading preventable causes of birth defects and developmental disorders. There is no safe level of drinking while pregnant, and we want to remind every woman they can start protecting their babies before they’re born.”
The Importance of Healthcare Staff
Healthcare staff play a crucial role in guiding and educating women during pregnancy. By sharing knowledge and expertise, they can help promote alcohol-free pregnancies and give babies the best possible start in life.
International FASD Awareness Day
International FASD Awareness Day was first observed in 1999. Its objective remains the same: to encourage women who are trying to become pregnant or those who are sexually active without using birth control to abstain from alcohol. This year’s theme, “Uniting our strengths: finding solutions together,” highlights the importance of a collective effort in addressing FASD.
Awareness Programs
Over the next two weeks, various schools, clinics, halls, and safe spaces will host awareness programs, including the use of foetal alcohol simulators. These simulators demonstrate the impact of substance abuse during pregnancy, serving as an eye-opening tool for individuals to visualize the potential harm caused by alcohol consumption.
Uniting Our Strengths
As communities worldwide join hands to combat FASD, these awareness campaigns serve as a vital reminder of the importance of collective action. By uniting our strengths and fostering a shared commitment to finding solutions, we can play a significant role in preventing this devastating yet avoidable condition. Working together, we can create a brighter future for generations to come.
