Alcohol and Pregnancy & FASD Research

The ultimate goal of our Alcohol and Pregnancy and FASD Research Team is to prevent children in Australia from being born with FASD.

People with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) have impairments that are permanent and negatively impact upon their development. FASD affects the ability to think, learn, focus attention and control behaviour and emotions. People with FASD maybe impulsive and often have low self-esteem and mental health problems. Their impairments may also lead to socially unacceptable behaviour, alcohol and other drug use, and early interactions with police and the justice system.

It is important that everyone is aware of the harm that can be caused by alcohol to the developing baby. Our Alcohol and Pregnancy and FASD Research Team is working with communities and stakeholders to:

• develop and implement effective prevention strategies to reduce alcohol use during pregnancy
• build the capacity of health professionals to diagnose FASD
• educate frontline professionals about recognising and understanding neurodisability among young people, reframing their behaviours and responding appropriately to their needs
• implement and evaluate programs that support children with FASD and their families, particularly early interventions that will reduce secondary effects and lifelong impairment.

Collaboration is at the forefront of research in the Alcohol and Pregnancy & FASD Research Team. We work with consumers and the community, external researchers, health professionals, service providers and policy makers across Western Australia, Australia and internationally.