September is FASD Awareness Month

FASD – Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is a lifelong disability that affects the brain and body of people who were exposed to alcohol in the womb.  These disabilities could be physical, behavioral or intellectual. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause permanent birth defects to babies and other defects such as:

• Brain damage (difficulties with learning, remembering, thinking things through, getting along with others.)
• Vision and hearing difficulties
• Bones, limbs and fingers that are not properly formed
• Heart, kidney, liver and other organ damage
• Slow growth

The safest choice during pregnancy is no alcohol at all.

On September 9^th, the Listuguj Community Health Services Directorate held a Lunch and Learn open to the community. They provided important information regarding FASD, and several prizes were given out.

If you have any questions on FASD or how to ensure a safe pregnancy, please reach out to Listuguj Community Health Services at 418-788-2155.

By Ann Marie Jacques