Today is international FASD day: what is new across the nordic and baltic region

09.09.2025 - Today, 9 September, communities worldwide mark International FASD Day to symbolise the nine months of pregnancy. The message is simple, alcohol and pregnancy do not mix.

Sweden, new data and a national meeting this autumn

A Swedish pilot study, published this April, tested an add-on to routine fourth-grade health checks and found FASD in 5.5% of 206 pupils, including 2.4% with full FAS. The authors say the approach is feasible and a larger national study is needed.

Sweden will also host “Fokus FAS 2025” in Uppsala on 11–12 November. The fourth national conference is free to attend, day one is streamed, and day two offers parallel tracks, including hands-on training in the 4-digit code for clinicians. Confirmed speakers include experts from Sweden, Norway and Finland.

Finland, a 9:09 reminder at the shops

Across Finland, Alko, R-kioski and S-group stores begin alcohol sales nine minutes later today at 9:09. This visible cue underlines that alcohol and pregnancy do not mix. Health media reiterates the same message, noting that some expectant mothers still drink and that the safest choice is to stop before pregnancy. Alko´s article today notes that about one in six expectant mothers still drink and explains why FASD Day exists. A new school focused initiative, "Hei, ope," raises awareness of FASD in Finnish schools.

Norway, diagnostic guideline now available in english

Norway’s regional competence service produced in 2024 the country’s first clinical guideline for diagnosing FASD. An English version is available to support wider professional use. The government’s current white paper notes that precise national figures are still missing, and it stresses early conversations about alcohol and drugs in antenatal care.

Estonia, practical materials and a clearer public message

Ahead of today, the Estonian association ETAK explained why alcohol use in pregnancy persists. Unplanned pregnancies, mixed messages and social norms play a part. ETAK emphasises that any amount can harm the fetus and announces an Estonian-language leaflet on alcohol and pregnancy to be distributed this autumn for parents and professionals. Other briefs from this year call FASD a hidden public-health issue and highlight that harms from alcohol extend to others, including babies.

FASD is harm to others, and it is preventable FASD is a clear example of alcohol’s harm to people who do not drink themselves. Children live with lifelong consequences that were not their choice. This harm is underestimated in public debate, yet it is preventable. Prevention depends on awareness, trustworthy and evidence based counselling in health and social services, and a supportive environment at home and in the community. As with other alcohol related harms, population level alcohol policies that lower overall consumption, such as pricing, availability and marketing restrictions, reduce risk at scale. Together with early, consistent counselling in antenatal care and practical materials for families, these measures give children the best chance to start life without avoidable alcohol related harm.