Government of Canada to assess FASD in Canada
Photo by Luma Pimentel on Unsplash
In December 2023, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) announced a federal government partnership with the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences to undertake a comprehensive scientific assessment on fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) in Canada.
The announcement indicated that the assessment is planned to include a review of the relevant data, literature, policies, programs and practices, along with engagement with key partners to identify challenges as well as opportunities to strengthen Canada’s approach to addressing FASD and inform future priorities for action. It is anticipated that the assessment report will be finalized in 2024.
The project, budgeted for $950,000, is being funded under PHAC’s Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder National Strategic Projects Fund, that allocates $1.5 million annually to collaborate with key partners across Canada to develop knowledge, tools and resources to address FASD.
The Honourable Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, stated, “We recognize the serious impacts FASD can have on individuals and families, with many facing mental health challenges and difficulties with substance use…. Through this work, we aim to develop a more comprehensive approach to help prevent FASD and support the needs of people with FASD and their families.”