International FASD Awareness Day September 9, 2011
At 9:09 a.m. on September 9, 1999, the first international Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) Awareness Day was observed. The date and time were chosen to mark the ninth minute of the ninth hour of the ninth day of the ninth month, which serves as a reminder that FAS, like all Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), is completely preventable if a woman does not consume alcohol during the 9 months of pregnancy. Yet, alcohol-exposed pregnancies continue to be a leading cause of birth defects and mental retardation in the United States, and children with an FASD often go unrecognized or are misdiagnosed, even as adults.
The SAMHSA FASD Center for Excellence helps lead the way in the effort to increase services for individuals with an FASD and their families. Check out some of the services available:
- A fully searchable database with more than 14,000 FASD-related resources.
- A State Systems page with links to state, national, and local FASD resources and information.
- Popular publications such as the Reach To Teach curriculum for elementary and middle-school educators, as well as the Grab and Go page, featuring links to the What You Need To Know series.
- An interactive Requests for Training page , which allows programs and individuals anywhere in the United States and internationally to request FASD-related training and technical assistance.
- A toll-free inquiry line (1-866-STOPFAS) and email address ( fasdcenter@samhsa.hhs.gov ) available for questions you may have.
