Volunteers are being sought for an assessment of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) in Atlantic Canada.

According to fasdNL, gaps have been identified in the region regarding prevention, diagnosis, education and intervention.

They say understanding the prevalence and financial costs are crucial to providing adequate support for those with FASD.

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder is defined as a complex and preventable disability that affects the brain and body of people exposed to alcohol before birth.

The assessments are done in three steps and include surveys, focus groups and one-on-one interviews, as well as a review of practices and policies throughout Atlantic Canada.

Participation is voluntary, and people may choose to only take part in the survey and/or the interview or focus group portion of the research. People can also opt out at any time.

More information is available by emailing fasdnlassistant@gmail.com or visiting the survey page.