What causes FASD?

There is a single cause of FASD - alcohol consumption by the individual's mother during pregnancy. The mother does not have to be an alcoholic. Studies show that even light drinking has had an effect on learning and growth. Studies show that FASD is an equal opportunity disorder, meaning that it affects the children of people from all races, walks of life, all socioeconomic statuses, all ages, and education levels.

Can FASD be prevented?
Yes! FASD is 100% preventable! If women did not drink during pregnancy there would be no children born with this disorder. The United States Surgeon General and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, along with other federal agencies recommend no alcohol consumption during pregnancy.

What are the characteristics of FASD?
Individuals with FASD face difficulty in navigating the world around them. They display characteristic behaviors that repeatedly get them into trouble. These may include:

• Attention deficits, Impulsivity, Hyperactivity
• Poor sleeping patterns
• Poor social skills
• Inconsistent performance (on and off days)
• Poor judgment
• Easily influenced by peers
• Explosive response to changes
• Ability to repeat rules but not practice them
• A general cluelessness

Due to their strengths, people often don't discover their deficits and set expectations they cannot meet. Strengths may include:

• Outgoing, Friendly, Talkative
• Bright in some areas: artistic, musical, or athletic
• Willing, Helpful
• Generous

Many individuals with FASD are smaller than their peers; some have distinctive facial characteristics. However, brain damage can be extensive even if the facial features are minimal or not present.

Double ARC FAS Diagnostic Team

The multi-disciplinary team includes: pediatricians, psychologists, speech-language pathologists, an occupational therapist, education specialists, and clinic manager. These 7 professionals from 6 organizations come together one day per month to assess, diagnose, and develop a service plan for one child.

 

Diagnosis: 3rd Wednesday of the month,

August through June, by appointment only

Intake: $35 non-refundable fee, applicable to cost of diagnosis

The diagnostic assessment includes:

acollection and analysis of psychological, medical, school records

a3/12 to 4-hour process by multi-disciplinary team

aPreliminary report with diagnosis and recommendations

aOne school consultation

aMedical summary report

aFee:  $1,980 (sliding fee available)

 

The information provided by the diagnostic assessment guides the development of appropriate supports and interventions for the child in the home, school, social service, medical, and judicial settings.

 

Case management services following the diagnosis include assistance in completing the service plan and advocacy for the child in the educational, medical, social, or judicial setting.

For more information contact Sr. Mary Sartor at 419-479-3060 ext. 7 or msartor@toledosnd.org.

 

How prevalent is FASD?
Studies show 1 in 100 individuals have FASD. The vast majority of them have not been diagnosed.