FASD Hub

FASD stands for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. It can arise from alcohol exposure during pregnancy and affects the developing brain and body of an individual before they are born. FASD is a lifelong, neurodevelopmental condition, often referred to as a hidden disability. Each person with FASD is affected differently. Each person with FASD has both strengths and challenges.

Individuals with FASD and their families may need support to learn FASD-informed strategies to help them prosper. When an early diagnosis is made, the right supports are put in place in education, at home, and in the workplace, individuals are more likely to succeed and achieve throughout life.

Care experienced children and young people could be four times as likely to have FASD as the general population with some studies estimating prevalence could be as high as 33%.

(Lange et al., 2013)

FASD is estimated to be 3-5 times more prevalent than autism and on par with typical ADHD.

(FAAST 2013 / SIGN 145)

Common symptoms and characteristics of FASD

The impact of FASD on an individual involves a wide range of common challenges including impulsivity, difficulties with cognition, memory, the sensory system, motor skills, executive functioning, social skills and affect regulation. These are often seen as dysregulation, developmental dysmaturity, a spikey profile of ability and inconsistent performance ‘can’t do today what they learnt yesterday – on and off days’.

You can find out more in our FASD factsheets area.