Tebogo Msimanga |
Every year on 9 September, International Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day, bells are rung at 09:09 in every time zone.
FASD raises awareness and educates communities about the dangers of alcohol consumption during pregnancy which include giving birth to a baby with FAS. The global Foetal Alcohol Syndrome Day was first commemorated on 09 September 1999 to remind all persons that during the nine months of pregnancy a woman should abstain from alcohol. This year, the day is commemorated under the theme, “Through the eyes of children.”
According to aware.org.za FASD is thought to affect at least 3 million of the South African population. The damage caused by alcohol consumption during pregnancy is irreversible and permanent. In an ideal situation, it is of value to get a diagnosis as early as possible.
