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:
- Emotions
- Decision-making
- Impulse control
- Memory
So, What Causes FASD?
FASD is caused by alcohol exposure before birth.
If a pregnant person drinks alcohol, it can pass directly to the developing baby. Alcohol can:
- Interfere with brain development
- Affect how the brain is wired
- Cause permanent changes
There is no safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy.
Why Alcohol Is So Harmful Before Birth
A developing brain is extremely sensitive. Alcohol can:
- Slow brain growth
- Damage brain cells
- Affect how different parts of the brain communicate
Once this damage happens, it can’t be undone.
Why Understanding the Cause Matters
Knowing what causes FASD helps:
- Reduce judgment and stigma
- Increase understanding and support
- Help people make informed choices in the future
Understanding the cause helps us focus on prevention and support, not shame.
Final Thought
FASD is caused by alcohol exposure before birth — but people with FASD are not defined by how it happened.
Learning the facts helps teens build empathy, protect future generations, and support friends who may be affected.
Knowledge = understanding.
Understanding = respect.
For more information on FASD and what teens should know about it, visit these websites: