The 2023 Public Health Agency of Canada survey found that 22% of students in Grades 9 and 10 reported having had sexual intercourse.
What is FASD?
FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) is a lifelong brain disability caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. It affects how the brain develops and can impact:
- Decision-making
- Impulse control
- Memory and learning
- Emotions
You usually can’t see FASD, but it affects how the brain works every day.
Teen Brains Are Still Developing
Teen brains are still growing — especially the parts that help with judgement and self-control. This makes substances hit harder, even if someone feels “fine.”
For teens with FASD, this risk is even higher.
Brain development continues into the mid-20s, which means teens are naturally more vulnerable to substances like cannabis and nicotine.
Cannabis & FASD
Cannabis affects attention, memory, and emotions — areas already impacted by FASD.
For teens with FASD, cannabis can:
- Increase impulsive behavior
- Make school harder
- Worsen anxiety or mood swings
- Increase risky decisions
Cannabis can make it harder to recognize limits or stop once started.
Vaping Isn’t Harmless
Many teens believe vaping is safer than smoking, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe.
Vapes usually contain nicotine, which can:
- Change how the brain develops
- Increase anxiety and stress
- Be addictive fast
Substances like cannabis and nicotine:
- Hit developing brains harder
- Increase long-term challenges
- Can make school, relationships, and mental health more difficult
Making informed choices about cannabis and vaping isn’t about being perfect — it’s about giving your brain the best chance to succeed.
Protect Your Brain
Your brain is still growing. Protecting it helps your strengths shine — like creativity, honesty, and empathy.
Getting real info helps you make smarter choices for you.
For more information on FASD, Cannabis, & Vaping, visit these websites:
https://www.alberta.ca/fetal-alcohol-spectrum-disorder-fasd
https://canfasd.ca/topics/prevention/
https://learningwithfasd.org.au/resources/fact-sheets/substance-use-in-adolescents-with-fasd/