On February 3, the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE), a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), published two fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) research briefs. The reports describe essential state prevention, identification, and intervention strategies and the vital role of primary health care providers in preventing FASD.

Hailing the significance of the briefs, FASD United President Tom Donaldson said, “The department’s recognition that, ‘FASD is an important public health and social issue associated with a large burden on society through the healthcare system, mental health and substance abuse system, foster care, criminal justice system, and long-term disability care services,’ is a loud and clear message that HHS agencies know they must do more for children and adults living with FASD and to prevent prenatal alcohol exposure, and that Congress must pass the FASD Respect Act.”

The briefs were informed by a technical expert panel that met in 2019. Susan Shepard Carlson, FASD United Policy Chair, Dr. Edward Riley, CIFASD Director and FASD United board member, and William Edwards, FASD United Justice Center Chair, served as panel members.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Challenges and Opportunities Technical Expert Panel – Draft Meeting Summary – September 23, 2019
State Responses to FASD: Effective Strategies and Ongoing Challenges Research Brief
The Role of Health and Human Service Providers in Preventing Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Research Brief

The ASPE advises the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services on policy development in health, disability, human services, data, and science; and provides advice and analysis on economic policy. The office leads special initiatives; coordinates the Department’s evaluation, research, and demonstration activities; and manages cross-Department planning activities such as strategic planning, legislative planning, and review of regulations.