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Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD)For more than 15 years the Department of Professional Development and Applied studies has been raising awareness, offering educational programs, and conducting outreach to address perinatal substance abuse. Alcohol use during pregnancy is a leading, preventable cause of mental retardation in the United States. Maternal alcohol use can result in a multitude of lifelong difficulties including growth retardation, behavioral problems, and other central nervous system deficits. The range of effects caused by alcohol use during pregnancy are collectively referred to as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is the most recognizable condition, and includes cognitive impairments, intrauterine and/or ongoing growth retardation, and specific measurable facial features. Unfortunately, Wisconsin leads the nation in reported drinking among women of childbearing age, and each year approximately 150 - 200 Wisconsin babies are negatively affected by prenatal alcohol exposure. Our programs serve to raise awareness and promote prevention of alcohol-exposed pregnancies; as well as offer information, strategies and skills development for providers and families working with individuals affected by FASD. Workshops:A series of two workshops on the topic of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), current research and proven strategies will be offered soon:
Conference:The National Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Conference: Evidence-Based Strategies for Today, Tomorrow, and Beyond. This national conference will be held Thursday April 3 - Friday April 4 at American Family Insurance National Headquarters, Madison, WI.
Email Kristi Obmascher to join the mailing list for this conference. FASD onsite training and consultation:Let us bring the expertise and experiences of the University of Wisconsin-Madison directly to you! We can provide one-hour to one-week training on a range of issues related to women, alcohol, and pregnancy including Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). To get more information on consultation and training, visit Kristi Obmascher's consultation page. FASD Awareness and Outreach:
Also of interest:
Contact:For more information contact: Kristi Obmascher, 608 262-8971, e-mail: kobmascher@dcs.wisc.edu
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Each year September 9th is designated as FASD Awareness Day, but anytime is a good time to raise awareness, provide education, and support families affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD)! Check out our “The Department of Professional Development & Applied Studies is a part of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Continuing Studies. The units within Continuing Studies provide continuing education programs for lifelong learners, from precollege to seniors, as well as counseling services for adult learners. You will find the UW—Madison Continuing Studies home page at http://www.dcs.wisc.edu, or browse the Web site using the navigational links below.