Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, mental retardation at NOFAS

National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Protecting children and families by fighting the leading known cause of mental retardation and birth defects

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“I've worked with poor families and the homeless for 17 years, first in Boston and now in Washington D.C. I've worked with people, some of whom had extensive criminal records, that weren't diagnosed with fetal alcohol syndrome until well into their adult years. All of their lives they have been labeled difficult, lazy, and manipulative. I've worked with women who reacted in horror and disbelief when their child was diagnosed with FAS, saying 'But I didn't drink that much.'”
Katy Gingles

NOFAS Newsroom

The Congressional Caucus on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)

The Congressional Caucus on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) recently unveiled its new Web site located at http://www.house.gov/pallone/fasd_caucus/welcome.shtml. For the FASD Caucus, which was founded in June of 2004, this is the first public tool to link the Congressional members of the caucus to FASD advocates worldwide. The information and materials presented on this site have the full support of the National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (NOFAS) and other community stakeholders in the field of FASD.

The new caucus Web site opens with the mission statement of the Congressional Caucus on FASD. As a public record of the existence and activities of the FASD Caucus, it will serve as an introduction to Congress on these issues, complete with fact sheets, resources, and links. The site also catalogues caucus membership with links to all members' Web sites, Dear Colleagues, press releases, and policy statements. Dynamic components that will be updated regularly also include Congressional events related to FASD and a photo gallery of caucus gatherings.

A new logo has been developed for the site, along with images of newborns to associate the risk of drinking while pregnant to the health of your child.

It is NOFAS' hope that the membership of the FASD Caucus will utilize the new site as a forum for learning and communication on this important issue. Basic information on prenatal alcohol exposure, including the most rudimentary question of "What is FASD" is included on the 'About FASD' section of the site. A photo gallery will visually record the participation of caucus members in Congressional briefings, summits, conferences, and gatherings intended to increase awareness FASD. Additionally, records of past Dear Colleagues and press releases related to FASD policy will be chronicled on the site, serving as an easy reference tool for anyone on the Web.

Please visit the new site and send thank yous, recommendations, and points of interest to the FASD Caucus co-Chairs Jim Ramstad and Frank Pallone, Jr. or other participating Members. If your US Representative is not a member of the FASD Caucus, urge him/her to join by going to the NOFAS Advocacy site and writing a letter, or click here.