Alcohol Risk Assessment Project (ARA)
The Saskatchewan Prevention Institute received funding from the Ministry of Health to develop a teaching package on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). The project targeted post secondary students enrolled in professional programs where in the future they may work with women of child bearing age. These programs include health care, education, justice, addictions, psychology, social work, and other community services programs. The focus is on the prevention of FASD and supporting women.
Why share information about FASD with post secondary students? FASD is recognized as the leading known cause of developmental disability in Canada. It is preventable. The consensus is that the prevalence of FASD in Canada is at least 9.1 per 1000 live births (approximately 1 in 100 live births). Prenatal alcohol exposure can affect physical, behavioural, learning and adaptive domains, and is strongly associated with mental illness. FASD is a lifelong condition that can have huge costs—on individual, family, social, economic and health levels. FASD crosses all boundaries, and it is not confined to any particular race, socioeconomic status, or any other demographic group/subpopulation.
As future professionals, your students will gain an awareness of FASD and how they can work more effectively with women of childbearing age to help reduce the risk of alcohol use during pregnancy. They will also begin to understand the challenges faced by individuals with FASD. The case studies and activities provided in the teaching package will enhance their learning experience as they apply their new knowledge to real life situations.
ARA Modules
Module One: Values, Attitudes, and Stereotypes
Module Two: What is FASD
Module Three: Alcohol, Women, and Pregnancy
Module Four: Youth and Alcohol Use
Module Five: Supporting Woman Who Drink During Pregnancy
Module Six: Impact of Alcohol on Fetal Development
Module Seven: Referral and Diagnosis
Module Eight: Primary Disabilities and Secondary Disabilities
Module Nine: Prevention of FASD
Module Ten: FASD and the Media
Module Eleven: Services in Saskatchewan
References
PowerPoint Presentation
Learning About FASD PowerPoint Presentation
