PLAY YOUR PART AGAINST FOETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDER (FASD)

• The Department of Social Development urges South Africans to contribute to the fight against Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) as International FASD Awareness Day is observed globally on 9th September each year. The 2024 theme, “Everyone Plays a Part”, underscores that every community member can influence both support for healthy pregnancies and inclusivity for those affected by FASD.
• South Africa, with one of the highest per capita alcohol consumption rates globally, faces a significant FASD prevalence, varying from 2.7% to 28% in some areas. Despite FASD being entirely preventable, it remains a major challenge due to a lack of awareness and misdiagnosis.
• Various stakeholders, including government officials and local advocates, are actively raising awareness in affected regions like Northern Cape and Western Cape. They highlight the severe impacts of alcohol on prenatal development and call for comprehensive support systems for affected individuals and their families.

The Department of Social Development has emphasised the importance of collective action to combat FASD, especially on this International FASD Awareness Day. Observed annually on 9th September, the day began in 1999 at 09:09 am and has since evolved into a global initiative.

The 2024 theme, “Everyone Plays a Part”, serves as a reminder that every member of the community can contribute to fostering a supportive environment for individuals with FASD and promoting healthy pregnancies. Actions can range from informal conversations to formal advocacy.

South Africa has one of the highest rates of alcohol consumption worldwide, and the prevalence of FASD ranges significantly across different regions, from 2.7% to as high as 28% in some communities. The Prevention of and Treatment for Substance Abuse Act No 70 of 2008 mandates the Department of Social Development to develop programmes aimed at preventing and treating substance use disorders, including FASD.

FASD encompasses a range of physical, behavioural, and cognitive impairments resulting from prenatal alcohol exposure. Alcohol, a potent toxin to the developing fetus, disrupts the development of fetal tissues and organs, particularly the brain and nervous system. This exposure can cause lifelong impairments.

Despite the severe consequences of prenatal alcohol exposure, there is no known safe level of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Even moderate drinking can harm the developing baby, making early identification and intervention crucial for affected individuals and their families. Unfortunately, FASD is frequently undiagnosed or misdiagnosed due to limited information and overlap with other developmental disorders.

South Africa’s high alcohol consumption rate and the prevalence of drinking during pregnancy are significant issues. The Department of Social Development stresses the need for collaboration with various stakeholders to address these challenges. Research indicates that Northern Cape and Western Cape Provinces have the highest prevalence of FASD, followed by Gauteng Province.

During this FASD Awareness Month, the department has been actively raising awareness in Northern Cape communities, such as Danielskuil and Siyathemba. At Danielskuil, Mr Rooibaaidjie from Danielskuil Intermediate School highlighted the learning difficulties faced by children with FASD, which can lead to early school dropout. A local parent shared her experience and urged other mothers not to drink during pregnancy, expressing regret and calling for the establishment of schools for children with FASD.

Mr Mario Jacobs from the Gambling and Liquor Board emphasised the importance of not selling alcohol to pregnant women, while Ms Thuli Roux from Siyathemba Clinic noted the risks of low birth weight and other health issues associated with alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Ms Marie Trollep from FAMSA pointed out the strain FASD places on families, often leading to conflict.

Ward Councillor Mr Dennis Pienaar praised the efforts of the Department of Social Development and other stakeholders, committing to enforce municipal by-laws to protect children and unborn babies from FASD.

Ms Motshabi Nkoane, social policy manager for substance abuse programmes, delivered key messages to pregnant women: “If you are pregnant, do not drink, and if you drink, do not get pregnant,” “No amount of alcohol is safe during pregnancy,” “Love your baby, do not drink while pregnant,” and “Your baby needs a mother and not a drink!”