CFFAR awards Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder research grants

The Canadian Foundation on Fetal Alcohol Research (CFFAR) today announced its fourth round of grants awarded for the research, prevention and treatment of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Dr. Louise Nadeau, Professor at the Université de Montréal and Scientific Director of the Centre Dollard-Cormier, University Institute on Dependencies and Ian Faris, President and CEO of the Brewers Association of Canada (BAC) made the announcement.

The announcement was made during the 12^th Annual Fetal Alcohol Canadian Expertise (FACE) Research Roundtable on the occasion of International FASD day.

CFFAR was created in 2007, thanks to a $1 Million commitment by the Brewers Association of Canada. CFFAR is an independent, non-profit foundation created to promote interest and fund research related to the short and long-term bio-medical, psychological and social effects of alcohol consumption during pregnancy, and the prevention of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.

Following a peer-review of applications, the following grants were awarded by the foundation:

Mindfulness Training and its Impact on Cognitive and Emotional Functioning in FASD, Dr. Colette Smart Ph. D., University of Manitoba

Evaluating the Effectiveness, Impact and Best Educational Practices of Specialized Classrooms for Youth with FASD, Dr. Deborah Goodman, Ph.D., Children's Aid Society

Use of Services by First Nations Children with FASD, Dr. Marni Brownell, Ph. D., University of Manitoba

"This year marked a breakthrough for CFFAR as it marks the first time that two studies on intervention are funded, and that a study on access to services for aboriginal victims is funded. We were also thrilled to hear of the results of the research undertaken two years ago by CFFAR grantees. Their findings will result in the development of improved tools and strategies for healthcare professionals, and improved medical and psychosocial assistance for individuals living with FASD and their families," said Dr. Nadeau, Chair of the Board of Directors of CFFAR.

Ian Faris added: "As brewers, we are pleased to fund this very important research and to learn more about the effects of alcohol on pregnant women and the development of the unborn child. Every year, the research funded by CFFAR studies the effects of FASD, its prevention and treatment, making a significant difference in the lives of families living with FASD. We are proud to be an involved partner in the fight against FASD."