The Federal Government has approved over $500, 000 in prevention funding over the next three years for a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder consortium in Newcastle.
The disorder is caused by a woman's consumption of alcohol whilst pregnant, and it's estimated around 25, 000 newborns are affected by FASD in the Newcastle area.
Alcohol is a grade 1 carcinogen and neurotoxin. The substance has the ability to damage a developing fetus' genes and cause permanent physical and intellectual birth defects, including holes in the heart and irreversible brain damage.
FASD is more common than autism, cerebral palsy and SIDS amongst newborns, but there is currently little awareness and diagnosis.
Local Drug Action Team Chairperson Tony Brown says it's crucial the whole community drive awareness and support of the preventable disorder.
'We know that the prevalence rate of FASD is higher than those addicted to ice or crystal methamphetamine. In terms of drug and alcohol-related harm, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is one of the highest forms of harm, but it's completely preventable.'
International research shows more than 90 percent of children diagnosed with FASD will have a mental health issue or a drug and alcohol problem, and 60 percent will engage with the juvenile justice system.
Mr Brown says we have a long way to go with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder prevention.
'The Hunter New England local health district has one of the highest rates of risky drinking of all health districts in New South Wales.
'FASD has profound effects on brain development, and this can really adversely affect a child's learning capacity and their behaviour, which can lead to crime and other behavioural problems.'
Newcastle Local Drug Action Team will be hosting a public forum on Tuesday the 5th December in the Town Hall. The forum will give people the opportunity to hear a number of national speakers, community and agent representatives and a community reference panel to help raise awareness for the disorder.
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