A new study which will examine the experience of people caring for or living with someone with foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is the first of its kind to be launched in Ireland.
The research, which is being conducted by Dr Katy Tobin of Trinity College Dublin in collaboration with Alcohol Forum Ireland and ENDpae – an FASD support group for parents and carers – will lift the lid on what life is really like for those affected by FASD across the country.
News of the study follows the introduction of minimum unit alcohol pricing in Ireland as of 4th January 2022.
Funding is being provided by Irish Research Council under a New Foundations Grant.
Limited research
The most up-to-date figures from the World Health Organisation show that as of 2017, approximately 600 babies were born with FASD in Ireland each year.
This puts the country in third place out of 187 countries worldwide where FASD is prevalent, behind South Africa and Croatia.
Dr Tobin said: “We have very limited research in Ireland regarding FASD.
“This new survey asks about the diagnostic journey and looks at the cost involved in getting a diagnosis as well as the costs for caring for someone with FASD.”
The survey began in November 2021 and will conclude later this month (January 2022).
Alcohol testing at AlphaBiolabs
AlphaBiolabs provides a range of legal alcohol testing services, working with local authorities and family law professionals across Ireland.
We also offer workplace alcohol testing.
To find out more, call our Customer Services team on 01 402 9466 or email info@alphabiolabs.ie.
