Summary

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is the umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur when a fetus is exposed to alcohol during pregnancy.

In the broadest sense, this includes miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, physical abnormalities and an increased risk of negative health outcomes for the child and even his or her offspring. However, FASD more commonly refers to a constellation of physical and neurodevelopmental impairments experienced by people who were exposed to alcohol during pregnancy.

This action plan aims to create a more effective, equitable and collaborative approach to FASD. It is a cross-agency commitment designed to build on the work that is already under way by providing coordinated support to those on the frontline of this issue.

Rather than establishing FASD-specific services and systems, this action plan will support the current system to be much more responsive to the needs of individuals, families, whānau and communities.

This action plan sets out a high-level vision of what we want to achieve, and how we can achieve that vision at a practical level.

Downloads

 Taking Action on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: 2016–2019: An action plan (pdf, 282 KB)

http://www.health.govt.nz/publication/taking-action-fetal-alcohol-spectrum-disorder-2016-2019-action-plan