Indiana Nonprofit Promotes Awareness for Common, but Largely Undiagnosed Developmental Disability

INDIANAPOLIS, September 23, 2024 (Newswire.com) - Indiana recently celebrated Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Day as declared in a recent proclamation by Governor Eric Holcomb. This day highlighted the importance of preventing prenatal alcohol exposure and supporting individuals with FASD. Observed in September, the 9^th month, to represent the nine months of pregnancy, FASD Awareness emphasizes that no amount of alcohol is safe during pregnancy. FASD affects as many as 1 in 20 school-aged children in the U.S., leading to challenges in communication, social interaction, cognition, and growth. 

Governor Holcomb’s proclamation urges communities, healthcare professionals, and the public to work together to raise awareness, support affected individuals, and combat stigma. “Healthy children are one of our most valuable resources,” said Holcomb. “This proclamation calls on all Hoosiers to recognize the impact of prenatal alcohol exposure and support those living with FASD.” 

Local non-profit organization, Indiana Alliance on Prenatal Substance Exposure (a subsidiary of Mental Health America of Indiana), has taken the Governor’s message to heart. Through a community-based process, the organization supports the prevention of prenatal alcohol exposure and creating more resources for individuals and families impacted by FASD. Indiana Alliance offers regular educational opportunities and support for families. “FASD is a fairly common, but largely undiagnosed developmental disability,” said Jackie Franks, MPH, Executive Director of Indiana Alliance on Prenatal Substance Exposure. “We work closely with all sectors of the community to identify what is needed to ensure that Hoosiers with FASD are healthy and have the support they need throughout all stages of life.”  

During a recent assessment of community needs, Indiana Alliance identified access to care, education about prenatal alcohol exposure, and social norms surrounding alcohol use to be contributing factors to the prevalence of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders across the state. “Access to quality reproductive care, especially in rural areas of our state, is essential to improving birth outcomes and preventing FASD,” stated Franks. “Indiana Alliance looks forward to addressing this factor and others in the coming months through strategic statewide initiatives.” 

Indiana Alliance on Prenatal Substance Exposure’s work has not gone unnoticed. Tom Donaldson, CEO of FASD United, a national organization based in Washington, D.C., believes they are a leader in prevention and education in the FASD field. “Through the years, our collaboration has led to an increase in FASD-informed practitioners and contributed to invaluable support for families,” Donaldson stated. 

“FASD Awareness isn’t just one day,” said Franks. “Every day, I encourage Indiana communities to consider the impact of alcohol consumption during pregnancy and work towards supporting individuals and families affected by these disorders. It is a reminder that prevention is key, but so is providing the necessary interventions and supports to ensure that those living with FASD have the opportunity to thrive.” 

For more information on FASD in Indiana, please visit www.inalliancepse.org. 

Source: Indiana Alliance on Prenatal Substance Exposure