South Africa has a very high number of individuals affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), with six million people impacted, according to the Foundation for Alcohol Related Research (FARR).
On Monday, September 9, which was World Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Day, the Western Cape FASD Network announced the creation of a new website aimed at educating the public about FASD and increasing awareness of the illness.
The initiative was launched as a part of a larger campaign to address FASD's high prevalence in South Africa.
"A pregnant woman's bloodstream carries alcohol, which can harm the unborn child's development permanently," said Patricia van der Ross, a member of the mayoral committee for community services and health.
Alcohol causes irreversible damage, yet FASD is 100% preventable.
Every year on September 9, at 9.09am, the world rings bells to represent the nine months of pregnancy in honour of World FASD Day.
The website's introduction was viewed as a crucial first step in addressing FASD in Cape Town, where it is still a major public health concern.
The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness, City of Cape Town’s Health, the Department of Arts and Culture Development, NGOs, and educational departments are among the stakeholders that are brought together by the FASD Network.
Their mission is to support women who may be experiencing addiction and to consistently spread awareness of the risks associated with alcohol use during pregnancy.
"This website will be a key tool in our efforts to reduce the incidence of FASD," Van der Ross said.
Professionals such as Sister Meagan Johnson and therapist Nomathemba Sejosengoe showcased the effects of FASD through interactive displays at a recent community event hosted by the Eerste Rivier Clinic and Matrix site. The exhibits highlighted how alcohol impacts the development of an unborn child.
The Cape Town Matrix clinics are prepared to offer treatment alternatives and assistance to women who are struggling with alcohol and drug abuse.
"Help is available for those who are already pregnant and struggling, but breaking the addiction before pregnancy is critical," said Van der Ross.
"We urge women to get help right away," she said.
The Western Cape's new awareness campaign highlights education as the key to preventing FASD, which is completely preventable.
The website will be a useful tool for medical professionals, educators, and community members who are trying to stop the disorder.
Along with highlighting educational initiatives, the City's FASD campaign collaborated with neighbourhood libraries, while the provincial Department of Social Development and NGOs provided assistance for families.
By the end of September, the website should be operational, providing families and pregnant moms with the knowledge they need to make educated choices on alcohol use during pregnancy.
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