Alcohol News - 41/2024

RCP London (UK) - Confronting alcohol harm and tackling inequalities: guest blog post from the Alcohol Health Alliance
In this piece Professor Sir Ian Gilmore, chair of the AHA, explores the record rise in alcohol-related harm in the UK, highlighting health inequalities and calling for urgent, evidence-based policy action.
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Harvard Gazette - ‘Heartbreaking’ encounter inspired long view on alcohol
The woman came in crying. She was disheveled and pregnant, and appeared to be intoxicated. She had a 5-year-old girl in tow and was looking for help from the crisis center where Anna Shchetinina volunteered.
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Guardian (UK) - England urged to bring in minimum unit price on alcohol as deaths rise 10% a year
Ministers are facing pressure to ­introduce minimum unit pricing for alcohol after Lord Darzi’s investigation into the NHS highlighted the “alarming” death toll in England caused by cheap drink.
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The Conversation (Australia) - We shouldn’t lock up young offenders with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Here are the alternatives
Barely a month goes by without news of children and adolescents who are imprisoned and being mistreated in youth detention.
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Tax Foundation (Brazil) - Brazil Proposes Major Overhaul of Its Alcohol Tax System
The Brazilian government is poised to make the biggest change to its alcohol tax policy in recent history.
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CTV News (Canada) - 'Sober curious': Younger Canadians turning away from alcohol, data says
According to a survey on recent alcohol consumption, younger Canadians are more likely to have not had a drink in the past week.
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The New York Times - What, Exactly, Is ‘Moderate Drinking’?
While the specifics remain unsettled, there is one thing most experts have come to agree on. “Less is more; less is better,” Dr. Stockwell said. “Drink less; live longer.”
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Neuroscience News - Early Alcohol Exposure Leaves Molecular Signature in Fetal Placenta
A recent study shows that alcohol exposure in the earliest stages of pregnancy can lead to detectable molecular changes in the late-gestation placenta, even influencing gene expression through DNA methylation.
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BusinessTech (South Africa) - Big changes to drinking laws in South Africa still coming
Major stakeholders and government departments believe alcohol laws and the legal drinking age need to change in South Africa, and these amendments are still being considered under the Liquor Amendment Bill.
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IAS Blog (UK) - Alcohol trade groups mislead Prime Minister on duty ‘increase’, putting revenue – and lives – at risk
In numerous newspaper articles, interviews, and social media posts, both the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) and the Wine & Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) have claimed that the ‘increase’ in alcohol duty rates last August led to the Treasury losing revenue.
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WCRF - Alcohol causes cancer – so how can we galvanise governments to act?
How should sales of alcohol be regulated? How can we make more people aware of the risk of cancer from drinking alcohol? Kendra Chow, Policy and Public Affairs Manager, and Kate Oldridge-Turner, Head of Policy and Public Affairs, investigate.
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NordAN (Finland) - Finnish Government proposes allowing alcohol home delivery and online sales
The Finnish government has introduced a legislative proposal to amend the Alcohol Act, which would allow the delivery of alcoholic beverages directly to consumers. If passed, this change would enable the home delivery of alcohol and online sales, expanding options for purchasing alcohol in Finland.
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Yale School of Public Health (USA) - Report examines impact of alcohol, drug, and firearm deaths on life expectancy in the U.S.
A new report from the American Association of Medical Colleges (AAMC) Research and Action Institute, co-authored by Dr. Megan L. Ranney, dean of the Yale School of Public Health, examines how alcohol, drug, and firearm deaths have lowered life expectancy in the United States and contributed to a widening gap in life expectancy between the U.S. and other high-income countries.
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NordAN (Sweden/Latvia) - NordAN's contributions to EU TRIS notifications: balancing public health and EU regulations
NordAN has recently submitted two contributions to the EU's TRIS notification system regarding proposed amendments to alcohol legislation in Sweden and Latvia, highlighting critical concerns.
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Sweden Herald (Sweden) - Portugal opposes Swedish farm sales
Portugal has at the last minute submitted comments on the government's proposal to allow farm sales of alcohol. This means that it will take some time before the bill can get the green light from the EU.
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NordAN (Denmark) - Danish experts warn government: cuts to substance research will have devastating consequences
Nineteen leading figures in Denmark's social sector, including NordAN board member Morten Skov Mogensen, have issued a stark warning to the government over proposed budget cuts to the Center for Substance Research (CRF).
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FASD News - 40/2024

The Conversation (Canada) - People with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder face a heightened risk of homelessness
Canada is in the midst of a housing crisis. A systematic failure to provide decent and affordable housing means far too many people are ending up homeless. Rigid and unresponsive policies perpetuate adversity and fuel stigma that places blame on the individual.
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NZ Herald (New Zealand) - 1 in 10 Far North children could be affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
As many as one in 10 Far North children could be affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, which can lead to lifelong learning and social difficulties.
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BBC (UK) - 'Art saved my life' - teen's joy at book of paintings
A teenage artist born with foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) has published a book of his work to help others struggling with the condition.
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UofLNews (USA) - UofL researchers studying specific causes of fetal alcohol syndrome
University of Louisville researchers have secured $2.3 million from the National Institutes of Health to study how genetics may increase the risk of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) in infants — and, what may help lower that risk.
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NZ Doctor (New Zealand) - Ministerial announcement on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
On 25th September the Minister for Health, Dr Shane Reti, announced new initiatives relating to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) at a symposium in Tāmaki-Makaurau.
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IOL (South Africa) - Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD): There is no 'safe time' to consume alcohol during pregnancy
Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a serious condition caused by women drinking alcohol during pregnancy.
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University of Bristol (UK) - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder - the quest for a new UK database
To time with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awaress Month a team of researchers at the University of Bristol have published a paper on Establishing a national linked database for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) in the UK: multi-method public and professional involvement to determine acceptability and feasibility.
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FARE Australia (Australia) - From Misdiagnosis to Understanding: Sharing our FASD story
As a mum of a kiddo with FASD, I have navigated the challenge of disclosing my story, getting an accurate diagnosis and advocating for the support my son needs.
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FASD ONE - Adopting: Do You Know About Fetal Alcohol Spectrum  Disorder (FASD)?
Research has shown that the majority (80%) of children with FASD are not raised by their biological parents, and are cared for by other family members or by child welfare agencies.
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Illuminate Colorado - The Key to FASD Prevention is Education and Empathy
While it sounds simple that FASD can be prevented by refraining from alcohol consumption during pregnancy, the challenge of actually preventing FASD remains complex.
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Kinsight - Breaking Stigma and Building Connections: Reflections on International FASD Day
On a grey September morning, as a cool breeze cast a somber backdrop, Mary and I set up our booth for an event marking International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day, September 9th,  at Hyack Square in New Westminster.
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VIDEOS and MATERIALS
The Scottish Parliament - Members' Business: Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Month - 26 September 2024
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City of Cape Town - Living with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
A foster mom shares some insights into raising a teen with FASD.
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University of Bristol - Improving the clinical coding of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD)
A short video with guidance for diagnosing clinicians, general practitioners and primary care teams to ensure timely and accurate coding of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder using SNOMED CT systems.
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The Arc of Indiana - FASD Awareness & Interventions
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is one of the most prevalent developmental disabilities that no one has ever heard of. It is estimated to impact 1 in every 20 Americans.
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Alaska Center for FASD - 8 Keys for Adults with FASD
Seven adults with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders telling their stories, challenges, strengths, and strategies for success.
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National FASD - FASD Not Commissioned Briefing
On 16 September 2024 The National Organisation for FASD held a briefing on its new report, "Not Commissioned: Systemic Confusion in NHS Services for alcohol, pregnancy and FASD."
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FASD United (formerly NOFAS) - FASD United Red Shoes Gala 2024 – Highlights
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Health Nexus Santé - Towards Healthy Outcomes for individuals with FASD (1.0)
Webinar on the guide 'Towards Healthy Outcomes for Individuals with FASD'.
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Patricia Kasper, Your FASD Coach - Unmasking False Confessions in FASD Cases
In this episode of Living with FASD, we welcome back Dr. Jerrod Brown to discuss the critical issue of false confessions and their impact on individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD).
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Human Development Center at LSU HSC - FASD and Neurodiversity 101
With 1 in 20 children estimated to have Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) in the United States, FASD isn't rare. It's everywhere.
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FASD Hub Scotland and FASD Hub UK - Wednesday Webinar with Harrison's Hope's Mary Byrnes
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Turning Point - Maternal Alcohol Reduction Interventions (MARI)
This presentation will give an overview of women’s alcohol use and harm across the life course, discussing how the role of alcohol changes during different life stages.
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Rural FASD Support Network - Shannon Butt, ALC Changemaker presents
In this tear-jerking presentation, Shannon blends FASD research with her own living experience to introduce her Anchors program.
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RESEARCH
The Journal of Pediatrics - Clinical Features of Typically Developing Children With and Without Prenatal Alcohol Exposure
Even when meeting developmental norms, children with PAE exhibited trends of poorer growth and cognitive/behavioral traits than children without PAE. These findings support the notion that abstinence during pregnancy is best.
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Quality in Sport - The Role of Physical Activity in the Rehabilitation of Children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: Why It Should Be Considered a Vital Part of Treatment
This literature review examines the pivotal role of physical activity in the treatment and rehabilitation of children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS).
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Social Sciences - The Invisible Struggle: Parents with FASD, the Courts and the Child Intervention System
Parents with FASD who are involved in child intervention may be required to participate in many programs simultaneously, potentially resulting in an overwhelming experience.
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Journal of Intellectual & Developmental Disability - Knowledge, attitudes and practices towards fetal alcohol spectrum disorder among healthcare workers in New Zealand
Of the 96 participants, more than 90% self-reported a good or very good understanding of FASD, and around half had a patient with FASD. However, less than half felt prepared to support someone with FASD. Participants identified lack of professional training, services, and funding as barriers to support individuals with FASD.
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Substance Use & Addiction Journal - Multi-Level Approaches to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Prevention Education and Training for Health Professionals
FASD prevention education is wrought with a variety of challenges related to stigma, discomfort, and misinformation, which these programs encountered in a variety of ways.
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Alcohol, Clinical and Experimental Research - Exploring the intersection of polygenic risk scores and prenatal alcohol exposure: Unraveling the mental health equation
Our findings highlight the specific interaction between increased genetic risk for bipolar disorder and prenatal alcohol exposure in shaping offspring mental health outcomes.
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Journal of Affective Disorders - Properties of the prefrontal tracts and cingulum bundle in children with prenatal alcohol exposure
PAE may be weakly associated with restricted diffusion in the right parahippocampal cingulum and multiple intra-frontal tracts. However, diffusivity changes related to PAE might not be the primary contributor to emotional and behavioural challenges in children and adolescents with PAE.
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Substance Use & Addiction Journal - Using Planned and Unplanned Adaptation to Implement Universal Alcohol Screening and Brief Intervention to Prevent Alcohol-Exposed Pregnancies in Four Primary Care Health Systems
Unplanned adaptations were observed across the 4 cases and emphasized the importance of flexible, adaptive designs when implementing evidence-based practice in dynamic settings.
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Folia medica Cracoviensia - Effects of Chronic Prenatal Alcohol Exposure on Nociceptive Responses to Mechanical and Thermal Stimuli in Rats
The results of this study highlight a critical aspect of the harmful systemic effects of alcohol, while also underscoring the need for further research to elucidate the underlying mechanisms, including the role of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the serotonergic system in modulating pain responses in individuals prenatally exposed to alcohol.
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BMC pediatrics - Neurodevelopmental outcome at two years of age and predictive value of General Movement Assessment in infants exposed to alcohol and/or drugs during pregnancy: a prospective cohort study
Neurodevelopmental outcome at two years of age was poorer in a group of children exposed to alcohol and/or drugs in pregnancy compared with a control group of healthy, unexposed children.
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Drug and Alcohol Review - Representations of ‘risky’ drinking during pregnancy on Mumsnet: A discourse analysis
Forum users demonstrated a desire to adhere to ‘responsible motherhood’, which did not equate to abstinence if consumption was perceived as acceptable and justified.
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Alcohol News - 40/2024

Alcohol Awareness (Sweden) - Sober October – How workplaces can prevent alcohol abuse
What kind of alcohol culture exists at your workplace? This is one of the questions highlighted during this year’s public health campaign, Sober October. Just like before, Sober October encourages you to embrace being ‘Sober Curious.’
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Euronews.com (Poland) - Poland plans to further tighten rules on alcohol sales for under 18s
Alcoholic drinks remain popular in the eastern European country despite the criticism. Poland ranked as Europe's third biggest beer producer in 2023, according to a Eurostat. survey, with the country also being a large exporter of vodka.
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BBC (Scotland) - Minimum price of alcohol in Scotland rises by 30%
The minimum price at which alcohol can be sold in Scotland has risen by 30% in an attempt to keep up with inflation over the past six years.
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ANSA Brasil (Brazil) - 'Teen alcohol use more frequent among girls' says Mantovano
Government Undersecretary Alfredo Mantovano on Tuesday said alcohol abuse had become more common in teen girls than boys and that alcohol was the most used psychoactive substance among minors, addressing the Parliamentary commission for infancy and adolescence.
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Verywell Health - Is It time to Add Cancer-Specific Warning Labels to Alcohol?
Could adding cancer-specific warning labels to alcoholic beverages help deter excessive alcohol consumption?
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South African Government News Agency (South Africa) - Call for no alcohol consumption this Social Development Month
With the country observing Social Development month, Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe is appealing all South Africans not to consume alcohol or sell alcohol to children during the month of October.
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Research Professional News (Australia) - Academics call for national drug and alcohol research plan
Academics in Australia are pushing for the introduction of a national plan for research into alcohol and other drugs to improve the country’s fight against harm caused by substance use.
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The Albertan (Canada) - Alberta government decides against allowing grocery, corner stores to sell alcohol
Albertans won't be able to buy alcohol from grocery and convenience stores after all. It's something the provincial government has been exploring since late last year, and the province says it has decided not to move forward in order to protect private retailers.
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WHO Europe - Redefine alcohol: WHO’s urgent call for Europe to rethink alcohol’s place in society
Alcohol accounts for nearly 1 in 11 deaths in the WHO European Region. The new campaign from the WHO Regional Office for Europe aims to change that.
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Statistics Canada - A snapshot of alcohol consumption levels in Canada: Half of Canadian adults reported not drinking any alcohol in the past seven days, 2023
In 2023, more than three-quarters (77%) of adults living in Canada's provinces reported drinking at least one alcoholic beverage in the past 12 months.
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IAS Blog - Alcohol’s hidden calories: a missed opportunity in obesity policy
There is now significant attention paid to the various ways in which alcohol impacts on public health, from the effects on individual drinkers’ physical and mental health to the consequences for those in their vicinity via road traffic accidents, intimate partner violence and, from a global health perspective, as a structural driver of HIV infection.
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The Conversation - The role alcohol plays in new cancer cases – landmark new report
A little bit of alcohol was once thought to be good for you. However, as scientific research advances, we’re gaining a clearer picture of alcohol’s effect on health – especially regarding cancer.
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NordAN (Sweden) - Alcohol romanticization is most common in teenagers' social media feeds
Seven out of ten young people are exposed to alcohol through popular culture, at least once a week. On social media, teenagers are most frequently exposed to trends related to drinking or drinking more alcohol.
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NordAN (Finland) - Finns believe alcohol home delivery will increase the workload of child welfare services
According to a survey conducted by several organizations, Finns do not trust that age limits and the ban on selling alcohol to intoxicated individuals can be effectively monitored during home deliveries of alcohol.
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NordAN (Latvia) - Latvia bans advertising of prices or discounts of alcoholic beverages in electronic media
In order to prohibit the advertising of prices and discounts for beer and wine on television and radio and thus reduce the overall consumption of alcoholic beverages and protect young people from the negative impact of advertising, the Saeima approved in the final reading amendments to the Electronic Media Law on Thursday, 26 September.
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Alcohol News - 39/2024

NordAN (Greenland) - Shaping Greenland's future through a comprehensive alcohol policy
The ongoing process of shaping a new alcohol policy for Greenland is a significant step toward addressing the profound societal challenges linked to alcohol consumption.
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Euronews.com - Over half of heavy drinkers would change their habits if alcohol had calorie labels
Some 54 per cent of heavier drinkers said in a survey that they would make changes to their drinking habits if calorie labels were introduced.
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EL PAÍS English (Ireland) - Lessons from Ireland, the first country to put health warnings on alcohol: ‘Many people drink without being aware of the risk’
Ireland will be the first country in the world to provide labeling that clearly links alcohol consumption to cancer. To be introduced in 2026, it is being viewed as a “promising” measure that will reduce consumption and encourage other European countries to follow suit, according to experts from the World Health Organization (WHO) in a recent report.
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MedicalNewsToday - Alcohol plays key role in cancer risk, new expert report warns
According to the 2024 edition of the American Association for Cancer Research’s Cancer Progress Report, advances in cancer research and treatment have helped decrease the age-adjusted overall cancer death rate in the United States by 33% between 1991 and 2021.
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Medical Xpress (Australia) - Australian research reveals one in six children harmed by alcohol
New research undertaken by La Trobe University's Centre for Alcohol Policy Research shows one in six children (17.1%) have experienced harm from the alcohol use of adults around them, with two-thirds of harm being attributed to an adult in their home.
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RNZ (New Zealand) - Up to one in 20 New Zealanders have fetal alcohol spectrum disorder – advocate
Every classroom in the country probably has at least one child with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) - but the vast majority are not getting any support, advocates say.
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The Irish News (Northern Ireland) - Calls for minimum unit pricing amid growing number of alcohol-related illnesses and deaths in Northern Ireland
There are calls for minimum unit pricing (MUP) to be introduced in Northern Ireland amid an increasing number of alcohol-related illnesses and deaths.
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CNN - Some experts are calling for age restrictions on the sale of nonalcoholic drinks. Here’s why
They won’t get you buzzed, but some experts say low-alcohol and alcohol-free beers and mocktails shouldn’t be sold to minors, and they’re calling for laws that curb underage sales to kids and teens.
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IAS Blog (UK) - Reducing Alcohol Harm – a blueprint for urgent national action
For far too long, the harm caused by alcohol has been soaring, yet efforts to address it have been hampered by a reluctance to take action at a national level. Alcohol can sometimes feel like someone else’s problem, not one that affects us directly.
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IAS Blog - Alcohol and Homicide: A Sobering Look at Violence in Latin America and the Caribbean
The urgency for studying Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is underscored by its alarmingly high violence rates, which surpass other world regions.
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DGMT (South Africa) - Alcohol adverts normalise binge drinking, and under-regulation allows widespread access
In August 2024, the Western Cape Division of the High Court confirmed that the Kannaland Municipality had failed to protect public health and safety when it granted liquor stores, restaurants, bars and the like permission to sell alcohol into the early hours of the morning.
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Alcohol Action Ireland (Ireland) - Fallout from extending opening hours will be felt across towns and cities of Ireland
Alcohol Action Ireland (AAI) has expressed deep concern that legislation to allow pubs and nightclubs to extend their opening hours is expected to be brought to government in October, as confirmed by Taoiseach Simon Harris.
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NIH (USA) - Sober-curious young Americans may be changing the conversation around alcohol
According to data from the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 68% of adults ages 21 and older in the United States drink alcohol. At the same time, researchers believe that the recent “sober-curious” movement may be encouraging some people to reevaluate their relationship with alcohol and the impact that drinking can have on their health.
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NordAN (Norway) - Norway: It will now hurt to advertise alcohol on social media
On September 13, a penalty fee for violations of the Alcohol Act was adopted by the government, Actis writes.
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Alcohol News / 38/2024

University of Colorado - A Sharper Focus on Increased Cancer Risks from Drinking Alcohol
When we hear about health impacts from drinking alcohol, often the conversation focuses on things like deaths or injuries from crashes, risk to a fetus during pregnancy, and liver and heart disease. But alcohol use also increases the risk of several types of cancer – a reality that isn’t as well known by the public.
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The Conversation - People with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder face a heightened risk of homelessness
Canada is in the midst of a housing crisis. A systematic failure to provide decent and affordable housing means far too many people are ending up homeless. Rigid and unresponsive policies perpetuate adversity and fuel stigma that places blame on the individual.
Read more

The New York Times - Deep Links Between Alcohol and Cancer Are Described in New Report
Adults under age 50 have been developing breast cancer and colorectal cancer at increasingly higher rates over the last few decades, and alcohol use may be one factor driving the trend, according to a scientific report published on Wednesday.
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The Conversation - How perpetrators of domestic violence use drugs and alcohol to control their victims
At least three decades of research on the intersection of substance use with domestic and family violence consistently shows the frequency, severity and impact of violence increases in the context of the perpetrator using alcohol and other drugs.
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Medical Xpress - Half of heavier drinkers say calorie labels on alcohol would lead to a change in their drinking habits
Just over half of heavier drinkers in England say they would make changes to their drinking if calorie labels for alcohol were introduced, according to a new study by UCL researchers.
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MedicalNewsToday - Dementia risk rises with any amount of alcohol use, new study suggests
There is no level of alcohol consumption that is not associated with a higher risk of dementia, suggests a new study, contrary to previous findings.
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YLE (Finland) - Government tensions rise over loosening of Finland's alcohol laws
A leading Christian Democrat MP has said that strong wines will not be sold in supermarkets as long as her party is in the governing coalition.
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Catalan News (Spain) - Spain wants to lower blood alcohol limit for all drivers
Spain's Interior Ministry, responsible for public security and internal affairs in Spain, is looking to lower the allowable blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for all drivers.
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Iceland Review (Iceland) - Minister Criticises Hagkaup’s Move into Alcohol Market
Yesterday, the grocery store Hagkaup began selling alcohol online for in-store pickup. The Minister of Finance has expressed concern about the possible implications of this decision on the youth and pointed to legal uncertainties surrounding alcohol sales, RÚV reports.
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BBC (UK) - Small beer: Study calls on government to shrink pints
A sobering discovery has led to Cambridge University academics calling on the government to stop serving beer in pints to reduce Britain’s alcohol intake.
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IAS Blog - Can alcohol control policies reduce family and domestic violence?
Family and domestic violence accounts for nearly half of all assaults in Australia. In New South Wales, the most populous state in Australia, reported rates of family and domestic violence have steadily increased since 2019.
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WCRF – Policy Position: Alcohol and cancer risk
Our new policy position on alcohol recommends: fiscal and pricing policies; restricting availability; mandatory health warning labels; marketing restrictions; and updated national guidance.
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NordAN (Denmark) - New study: Supermarkets tempt shoppers with alcohol while grocery shopping
On average, you encounter alcohol nine times during a trip through the supermarket. The Danish Cancer Society calls for stricter regulation.
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ERR News (Estonia) - Thousands of drunk drivers pass a special program instead of going to jail in Estonia
Instead of going to prison, 4,500 individuals caught driving under the influence in Estonia have participated in a special program where they are subject to medical monitoring and must avoid reoffending.
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Alcohol Awareness (Norway) - Are you on the same page with your teenager?
Av-og-til, a Norwegian organization dedicated to preventing alcohol-related harm, has launched a campaign to encourage parents to have open and honest conversations with their teenagers about alcohol.
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FASD News - 37/2024

Canada.ca (Canada) - Message from the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health – FASD Awareness Day
Today, we come together to recognize Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day and Month. For 25 years, September 9 has been dedicated to raising awareness about this critical issue that affects individuals and families across Canada in far-reaching ways. This date, the nineth day of the nineth month, honours the nine months of pregnancy.
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BBC (UK) - 'Nobody asked me about alcohol when I was pregnant'
There are calls for more awareness education and support into those with foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
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Netwerk24 (South Africa) - Collaborating on FASD
September marks Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Month, and South Africa faces a significant challenge with the condition, one that is 100% preventable yet alarmingly prevalent in this country.
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BBC (UK) - Baby vests protest over foetal alcohol disorder
Baby vests have been hung on a bridge by a charity which says the NHS is failing to take enough action to prevent foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
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CBC (Canada) - 'Everyone plays a part': Yukon organizations gather in support of FASD awareness day
People gathered in Whitehorse's Shipyards Park on Monday to mark Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) awareness day.
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NZ Herald (New Zealand) - ‘No safe amount’: Push for more Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder awareness
In New Zealand, there is ongoing concern about the lack of awareness of the harm caused by drinking whilst pregnant and children with FASD not getting support in schools.
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The Press (New Zealand) - Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: the ‘hidden’ disability
Megan* had no idea what Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) was until a doctor told her her foster son had it. That was just before he diagnosed the boy with something else.
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National Indigenous Times (Australia) - Peak body calls for better access to foetal alcohol spectrum disorder intervention in the Top End
The peak body for Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services in the Northern Territory has raised concerns regarding the lack of screening and early intervention for children and young people suffering from Foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
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Movendi - Special Feature: Understanding FASD Burden and Solutions
Of all the behavioral choices people make in conjunction with pregnancy, none are of greater importance to the child’s future health and development than the ones people make in relation to alcohol.
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Lifeline - Living With FASD
According to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Consultation Education and Training Services (FASCETS), Fetal Alcohol Spectrum can be described most simply as “an invisible brain-based physical condition with behavioral symptoms.”
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Tay Township (Canada) - Proclamation: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day - September 9, 2024
WHEREAS there is no safe amount, no safe time, or no safe kind of alcohol that a pregnant individual can drink during pregnancy
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FARE (Australia) - Australian landmarks go red to raise awareness of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Major landmarks across the country will go red this September to mark International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Month, encouraging conversations about FASD and the importance of supporting alcohol-free pregnancies.
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CanFASD - “How can you tell if someone has FASD?” and other FAQs
In this blog, we are debunking the myths and answering the most common questions people ask about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
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NordAN - FASD in the Nordic countries: A present concern for children’s health
In the Nordic countries, FASD remains a significant concern, affecting thousands of children each year. While the statistics vary by country, the message is clear: prenatal alcohol exposure can lead to irreversible damage, and awareness must be raised to prevent new cases.
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VIDEOS and MATERIALS
Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare - FASD Testimonial - Deb's Story
Hear from Deb, a client of HDGH's Regional Children's Centre's Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) program, as she shares about her family's journey.
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City of Sault Ste. Marie - FASD Awareness Month
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jxQ66TPUPmc

National FASD - 2024 FASD Day - 660 baby vests highlight the number with FASD born in a year in Greater Manchester
On the 9th of September 2024, International FASD Awareness Day, National FASD joined with members of the Greater Manchester FASD Network, FASD Greater Manchester, NHS Greater Manchester, the University of Salford, Manchester Council, Drymester and more to hang 660 baby vests across the footbridge in Media City, Salford.
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United States Drug Testing Laboratories (USDTL) - ToxTime: Be Part of The Team - Identify and Assess for FASD
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders are not rare. In fact, they are more prevalent than either autism or Down Syndrome, but they are rarely diagnosed, denying services to those who need them to address immediate developmental concerns and mitigate lifelong damage caused by prenatal alcohol exposure.
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Beyond 6 Seconds - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) - with Patti Kasper
Patti’s approach to coaching and training draws on her personal experience with FASD, her degrees in social work and psychology, as well as her training as a Certified Facilitator of FASCETS Neurobehavioral Model.
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FASD Awareness - Celebrating FASD Advocates in 2024- FASD Webinar #29
In this live webinar, our host Andrew Keeping (CEO of FASD Awareness), interviews some amazing individuals living with FASD, celebrating their achievements and hearing more about their aspirations and future plans.
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FASD Hub Australia - The role of Social Workers in supporting children and families towards and beyond a FASD diagnoosis
In this webinar you will hear from paediatrician and researcher Professor Elizabeth Elliott, Dr Kerryn Bagley, Senior Lecturer in Social Work and Social Policy at La Trobe University and Julia Perl, Senior Social Worker at the CICADA FASD Service in Sydney.
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Living Local Network - Signs and Symptoms of FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders)
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Patricia Kasper, Your FASD Coach - International FASD Awareness Day Celebration with Jenn Wisdhal and Rebecca Tillou
In this special Living episode with FASD, host Patti Kasper celebrates International FASD Awareness Day with two distinguished guests, Rebecca Tillou and Jenn Wisdahl.
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CMSU Behavioral Health - FASD Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Webinar
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FASD United (formerly NOFAS) - FASD United Monthly Policy Forum - July 2024
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FASD United (formerly NOFAS) - FASD United Monthly Policy Forum - August 2024
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FASD Hub Scotland and FASD Hub UK - FASD Hub Webinar: Nate Sheets
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Saskatchewan Prevention Institute - Assessment and Support of Preschoolers with Prenatal Alcohol Exposure
Learning Objectives: Outline the basic definition of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and recognize how prenatal alcohol exposure may impact the developing brain…
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fasdNL - Part 3 - Pregnancy, Alcohol & FASD - Alcohol & Safer Sex Video Series
This is the third video in our 3-part Alcohol and Safer Sex Video Series! This series is designed for students from grades 7-12 to teach them about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and how alcohol affects pregnancy.
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Justice For Orphans - The Adoption & Foster Care Journey - Ep. 443 - FASD Change Maker, Maggie Mae
September is FASD Awareness Month and we’re kicking it off a special guest, Maggie May. Maggie is an adult born in Ireland with an FASD. She speaks internationally about the impact prenatal exposure to alcohol has had on her life.
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RESEARCH
IJPDS - Identifying substance misuse related foetal anomaly cases in routinely collected data
A novel method to identify SM-related foetal anomaly cases using routinely collected data in Wales is provided. The published code to identify mothers and children exposed to SM-related events can also be reused in future projects.
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Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology - Drinking even small amounts of alcohol during pregnancy could alter fetal brain structure
Alcohol consumption during pregnancy can affect fetal brain development, as seen in temporal brain asymmetry detected by fetal MRI.
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Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities - Integrated service delivery for individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
This study may help to inform a roadmap for enhancing FASD service delivery and guiding FASD research and policy in Canada and beyond.
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Multidisciplinary Reviews - A lifespan perspective on fetal alcohol syndrome: Developmental challenges and outcomes
This disorder represents the intersection of complicated societal, community, family, and biological circumstances that increase the risk for intergenerational suffering, health disparity, and social injustice.
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Brain Communications - Subcortical volume in middle-aged adults with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
Studies of youth and young adults with prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) have most consistently reported reduced volumes of the corpus callosum, cerebellum and subcortical structures.
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University of Guelph - Guilty Pleas in Youth and Young Adults with and without Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
Overall, findings highlight the importance of developmentally-informed plea practices for youth, and suggest young adults may require more support throughout this process than previously thought.
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Disabilities and Autism: Ethics and Practice - Ethical Considerations Arising in the Assessment, Treatment, and Support of Individuals and Families Living with FASD
This chapter discusses the ethical challenges associated with crafting effective and non-stigmatizing public health messaging about FASD, issues of mother-blame and the villainizing of women who consume alcohol in pregnancy, and an overview of some of the ethical considerations in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and support of individuals and families living with FASD.
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Laurier - Exploring the Transition from Childhood to Adulthood for Adults with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Previous research has demonstrated that adults with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) often lack support after reaching 18 years old because they are no longer eligible for the support they receive as children.
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Western University - Improving the Educational Experience of Students with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is recognized as one of the leading causes of developmental disability in the Western world (Flannigan et al., 2018). Its prevalence is estimated at 4% of the population.
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Drug and Alcohol Dependence - Administratively reported fetal alcohol spectrum disorders in commercially- and Medicaid-insured samples of children in the United States, 2015 – 2021
Although an underestimate of the true population of children with FASDs, patterns in administratively reported FASDs by demographics were consistent with previous studies.
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Substance Use & Addiction Journal - Answering a Call to Action: Reducing Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Using a Healthcare Champion Model
Through the advocacy, education, and mission of these 6 health sectors in collaboration with national organizations and educational institutions, the evidence-based approach of alcohol SBI is being disseminated throughout the United States to reduce the harmful effects of prenatal alcohol exposure.
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Paediatrics and Child Health - Drugs and alcohol in pregnancy: what a paediatrician needs to know, how to ask and why it matters
This article will explore the immediate and long-term impact of exposure to these substances in pregnancy and consider how to obtain an accurate history of exposure to drugs and alcohol in pregnancy as part of standard paediatric history taking.
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bioRxiv - Longitudinal mapping of cortical change during early adolescence associated with prenatal tobacco and/or alcohol exposure in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive DevelopmentSM Study
Cortical thickness (mm) and cortical surface area (mm2) measured approximately 2 years apart in early adolescence, across 68 bilateral cortical regions.
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IN OTHER LANGUAGES
Helsinkin Sanomat (Finland) - Näkymätön taakka
Violan äiti joi alkoholia raskausaikana. Vasta aikuisena Violalle selvisi, että hänellä on aivojen toimintahäiriö, arnd. Se ei näy ulospäin mutta vaikuttaa koko elämään. Moni suomalainen kärsii häiriöstä tietämättään.
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NTNU (Norway) - Søvnforstyrrelser, epilepsi, EEG-funn og klinisk funksjon hos norske barn med føtalt alkohol spektrumforstyrrelse (FASD)
Vi har utført en omfattende undersøkelse av barn og ungdom med diagnosen FASD som har vært til diagnostisering og utredning ved Regional Kompetansetjeneste – Medfødte Russkader (RK-MR) ved Sørlandet Sykehus HF.
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NACOA Deutschland (Germany) - FASD Aktionswoche: Lunchtime-Interview zu "Tim: Ein Leben mit dem Fetalen Alkoholsyndrom"
Das Baby sei eine "Mangelgeburt", hieß es, als Monika Reidegeld ihren gerade geborenen Adoptivsohn zum ersten Mal sah. Ein kleines, leichtes Kind, zu dem sie lange keine Beziehung aufbauen konnte.
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Chaos im Kopf Podcast - Dein FASD Podcast (Germany) - FASD Aktionswoche 2024
Vom 9. bis 16. September 2024 läuft die FASD Aktionswoche, und in dieser Episode erfährst du einiges über die geplanten Aktionen und Veranstaltungen. Freue dich auf exklusive O-Töne und spannende Events.
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Kehitysvammaliitto (Finland) - Jospa olisin tiennyt – kansainvälinen FASD-päivä 9.9.
Alkoholi on kaikkein merkittävin sikiön kehitystä uhkaava tekijä, johon odottava äiti voi itse vaikuttaa. Kaikista päihteistä juuri alkoholi aiheuttaa eniten sikiövaurioita. Vuosittain Suomessa syntyy karkean arvion mukaan 600-3000 alkoholille altistunutta lasta.
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Alcohol News - 37/2024

BBC (Scotland) - Scottish alcohol deaths at 15-year high
The number of people in Scotland whose death was caused by alcohol remains at a high level, with the largest number of deaths in 15 years.
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National Geographic - 8 things we’ve learned about how alcohol harms the body
Humans have been drinking alcohol for thousands of years—it’s part of our culture to raise a toast in celebration with friends or nurse a glass of wine or beer at the end of a long day.
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News-Medical - Study shows increased alcohol consumption directly raises dementia risk
In a recent study published in the journal eClinicalMedicine, researchers investigated whether raising the consumption of alcohol causes the risk of developing dementia to increase among individuals who currently drink.
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BBC Science Focus Magazine - Why it's time to change your relationship with alcohol (and how to do it)
More of us are thinking 'I should probably drink less.' But what is booze really doing to our bodies? Is abstinence as worthwhile as people say? And what's the best way to change, if not end, our relationship with alcohol?
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BBC - 'Nobody asked me about alcohol when I was pregnant'
There are calls for more awareness education and support into those with foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
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Olive Press News Spain (Spain) - Spain studies MUCH stricter alcohol limits for drivers: This is the proposed maximum blood alcohol level
The Government said the National Road Safety Council has warned of ‘the need’ to lower alcohol limits for drivers.
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The Press (New Zealand) - Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: the ‘hidden’ disability
Megan* had no idea what Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) was until a doctor told her her foster son had it. That was just before he diagnosed the boy with something else.
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Alcohol Focus Scotland (Scotland) - Ongoing alcohol deaths crisis highlights need for a “radical step change” in Government’s response
1,277 people died in 2023 from causes solely attributable to alcohol, according to figures published today, Tuesday 10th September, by National Records for Scotland. This is a slight increase on the figures from 2022 (1,276).
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SHAAP (Scotland) - SHAAP calls for urgent action to deal with ongoing public health emergency as it is revealed 1,277 people suffered an alcohol-specific death in Scotland in 2023
The latest figures from National Records of Scotland, (NRS) show 1,277 people died from conditions caused by alcohol in 2023. This was one death more than the previous year, which was the highest number since 2008.
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Drymester (UK) - #FASDNotCommissioned report
On FASD Awareness Day 2024, National FASD released ‘Not Commissioned: Systemic confusion in NHS services for alcohol, pregnancy and FASD’, a biennial progress report on NICE Quality Standard 204 based on Freedom of Information requests.
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NordAN (Denmark) - Seven out of ten young people adhere to alcohol agreements with their parents
Although it can be challenging for parents to manage their teenagers' drinking habits, it's a good idea to get involved. A new survey confirms that agreements about alcohol work.
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NordAN (Sweden) - Swedish government modifies assignment to Socialstyrelsen on alcohol, drugs, and gambling policy
The Swedish government has announced modifications to Socialstyrelsen's (the National Board of Health and Welfare) mandate regarding its support for policies on alcohol, narcotics, doping, tobacco and nicotine, as well as gambling.
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NordAN - FASD in the Nordic countries: A present concern for children’s health
On September 9, the world marks International FASD Awareness Day, highlighting a preventable yet widespread public health issue — fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). In the Nordic countries, FASD remains a significant concern, affecting thousands of children each year.
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Finnish Government (Finland) - Rapporteur to explore allowing sales of wines with up to 15 per cent alcohol outside Alko monopoly
The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment have appointed Antti Neimala to carry out a study on the possibilities to allow sales of wines with up to 15 per cent alcohol outside the Alko monopoly.
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Sverige Radio (Sweden) - Study: CEOs in Sweden drink more alcohol than average workers
A study shows that CEOs are the category in the workforce that drink most alcohol, three times as much as the categories that drink the least, such as primary school teachers and nurses.
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