DON’T STEREOTYPE

Re: FASD requires more than talk (SP, Jan. 22). As the mother of a child with FASD I am fully aware of the outcomes of this misunderstood disability, and I read your editorial with interest.

It refers to society’s desire for pregnant women to abstain from alcohol consumption, yet doesn’t touch the issue of a society that perpetuates the image of alcohol as the elixir for all. Society not only allows it but condones it. Think of the celebrations — weddings, birthday parties — concerts and sporting events where alcohol is advertised and flows freely.

There is much more to FASD prevention and awareness than a woman ceasing to drink during pregnancy. Why must this be taught only to girls/women of child-bearing age? Are there not boys and men who play a role in conception?

We teach all children from a young age about the dangers of smoking, yet we choose to segregate the education of FASD prevention. With an estimated 46 per cent of pregnancies unplanned, and a safe amount of alcohol unknown, how many women have exposed their unborn children to alcohol?

It’s disappointing that you chose to perpetuate the image of the woman who chooses to subject her unborn child to harm. The factors that play into FASD are as complex and varied as the families and individuals affected.

Until society accepts its role in the stereotyping and stigmatizing mothers and individuals affected by FASD, and responsibility for acceptability of “any time” alcohol consumption, we will see increases in FASD diagnoses.

I agree with you on one thing: FASD needs way more than just talk. Anna Niessen Saskatoon