Dusty Johnson: “today I rise to recognize April as National Alcohol Awareness Month. We must all remain aware that alcohol is a drug…”

“today I rise to recognize April as National Alcohol Awareness Month. We must all remain aware that alcohol is a drug that can pose serious health and well-being risks if used improperly. From underage drinking to drunk driving to alcohol addiction, this substance can have catastrophic and long-reaching effects on the lives of Americans. I wish to take the opportunity in a month dedicated to alcohol awareness to promote awareness of a devastating alcohol-related condition. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, FASD, is an umbrella term describing the varied range of alcohol-related birth defects that may result from the use of alcohol during pregnancy. The effects of this disorder may be mental, behavioral, and/or involve learning disabilities. FASD is the leading known cause of preventable cognitive impairment in America. It is estimated FASD effects 1 in 100 live births each year. We must move past the stigma of this devastating disease to truly help those and their families who are affected by FASD get the health, education, counseling and support services they need and deserve. We must also address the tragedy of FASD at the source, by increasing awareness that any amount of alcohol during pregnancy can have heartbreaking, lifelong effects, and by ensuring this is understood by all women of child-bearing age and by providing treatment and counseling services for these women.”