Preventing FASD through community action and collaboration

FOETAL Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) remains one of the most pressing yet preventable public health challenges worldwide.

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With a national FASD prevalence rate estimated at 11%, and prevalence rates as high as 31% in specific areas, South Africa has the highest reported prevalence rates of FASD globally.

Behind the statistics are children, families and communities living with the lifelong realities of developmental, educational and health challenges. FASD limits opportunities for learning and employment for those affected, while placing heavy emotional and financial burdens on caregivers and communities.

Partnerships driving change

To address the urgency of this crisis, Aware.org has strengthened its longstanding partnership with the Foundation for Alcohol Related Research (FARR), and more recently begun collaborating with the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and the School of Hard Knocks (SoHK) to deliver targeted programmes aimed at preventing FASD.

These partnerships reflect Aware.org's commitment to supporting pregnant women, women of childbearing ages and children affected by FASD. The programmes are rooted in a simple yet powerful truth: FASD is 100% preventable when alcohol is avoided during pregnancy.