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)

Do people with FASD look different?

FASD is a ‘hidden disability’, meaning that you cannot tell by looking at someone whether they have the condition. Around 10% of individuals have specific facial features that are indicative of PAE, these are a thin upper lip, smooth philtrum, and narrow eye opening. The remainder of individuals with a history of PAE do not have these features, which has historically brought challenges for the individual and their families in terms of professionals recognising the impact of PAE.