Action in Scotland lags other countries
Experts have warned Scotland lags behind other countries in diagnosis of foetal alcohol disorder (FASD) and support for those affected.
Alison Douglas, chief executive of charity Alcohol Focus Scotland, believes more needs to be done to prevent FASD and talk to women about drinking during pregnancy.
She said: “The estimated number of people in Scotland who are living with FASD is worryingly high for what is an entirely preventable condition.
“Every parent wants the best for their baby, and the Chief Medical Officers’ advice is clear that women who are pregnant or trying to conceive should avoid drinking alcohol.
“That message – and the reasons why it is so important – needs to be communicated through social marketing campaigns, but also through GPS, family planning and ante-natal services.
“The alcohol industry also has a role to play and Alcohol Focus Scotland would like to see mandatory, clear and consistent warning labels on bottles and cans explaining the health risks of drinking alcohol during pregnancy.”
The advice from Scotland’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Catherine Calderwood is that if you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant, the safest approach is not to drink alcohol at all to keep risks to the baby to a minimum. The charity FASD Scotland said: “Surprisingly, given our drinking culture, and with the knowledge that FASD is a common condition, Scotland lags far behind Canada and the USA in preventing, understanding, identifying and supporting children and adults affected by FASD. The Scottish Government said: “The First Minister announced an increase in third sector support for families affected by FASD.
“We are working with third sector partners and NHS Boards with the aim of providing appropriate support to children and families affected by FASD.”