F.A.S.D — Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Prevention starts with knowledge.

FASD is 100% preventable and 100% permanent. No alcohol during pregnancy is the only way to ensure your baby is not affected. Learn, share, and support.

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100%

Preventable — no alcohol during pregnancy equals no FASD

100%

Permanent — damage caused by alcohol cannot be undone

2001

Year the WC FASD Network was established in the Western Cape

9 Sep

International FASD Awareness Day — marked annually

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About / Team

What is FASD?

Understand what Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders are, how alcohol affects the developing brain, and the stages of fetal development.

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The Network

WC FASD Task Team

Meet the Western Cape FASD Network — a collaboration of government, NGOs and researchers working to prevent FASD since 2001.

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Events / Tips

Health Promotion

Practical health tips, the FASD Knot symbol of awareness, and guidance on preventing alcohol exposure during pregnancy.

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Support

Supporting Someone

Guidance for parents, caregivers and teachers — from newborn through to adulthood — with practical top tips for daily support.

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Support / Contact

Q & A

Answers to the most common questions about FASD — from prevention and diagnosis to breastfeeding and the role of partners.

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Contact

Find a Clinic

Locate the nearest Matrix® clinic in Cape Town, get contact numbers, and learn about available outpatient treatment services.

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Key Information

Basic FASD Messages

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders are caused by alcohol exposure at any point during pregnancy. There is no safe amount, no safe time, and no safe type of alcohol during pregnancy.

  • FASD is 100% preventable — simply by not drinking during pregnancy.
  • FASD is 100% permanent — the brain damage cannot be reversed.
  • Alcohol passes through the placenta and reaches the baby's bloodstream.
  • Damage occurs at every stage of pregnancy, not only the first trimester.
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The Western Cape FASD Network

Established in 2001, the WC FASD Network brings together government, NGOs, researchers and healthcare professionals united in preventing FASD across the Western Cape.

  • FAS declared a provincial health priority in 2001–2002.
  • Annual 9 September International FASD Awareness Day events.
  • Training manuals, conferences, and community awareness campaigns.
  • Partners include FARR, Dopstop, MRC, UCT, Stellenbosch University and more.
Meet the team

Supporting Individuals with FASD

Whether you are a parent, teacher or caregiver, understanding how FASD affects development at each life stage makes a real difference.

  • Build on strengths — focus on unique talents and celebrate small progress.
  • Provide structure, consistency and predictable routines.
  • Use visual clues: timetables, pictures and practical demonstrations.
  • Patience and positive reinforcement over punishment.
View all support tips

Early Intervention & Diagnosis

Early identification of FASD is crucial for improving long-term outcomes. The sooner support is in place, the better the developmental trajectory.

  • Be aware of developmental delays, learning challenges, or atypical behaviours.
  • Go to your nearest clinic and ask that your child be tested.
  • Only a specially trained doctor can diagnose FASD.
  • It is never too late to access support and specialist services.
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Ready to find support?

Contact our team or locate your nearest Matrix® clinic across Cape Town. Help is available and you are not alone.

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