Understanding the 428 Co-Occurring Conditions Associated with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a complex, lifelong neurodevelopmental disability that can affect multiple areas of a person's physical, cognitive, emotional, behavioural and developmental functioning. Research published by Popova et al. in The Lancet in 2016 identified 428 co-occurring conditions reported among individuals living with FASD, spanning 18 of the 22 chapters of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10). These findings demonstrate the breadth and complexity of FASD and highlight why understanding the condition requires a whole-person approach to assessment, diagnosis and support. Importantly, not every person living with FASD will experience these conditions, and their co-occurrence does not automatically mean that FASD caused them.
FASD Ireland has made the research more accessible through two downloadable resources: a comprehensive Excel spreadsheet containing all 428 entries identified in the original research, including condition descriptions, research references and ICD-10 classifications where provided, and an accompanying FASD Ireland factsheet presenting key information in an accessible format. We hope these resources will support greater awareness and understanding among healthcare professionals, educators, researchers, policymakers, families, carers and people living with FASD themselves. By recognising the wide-ranging needs that can accompany FASD, we can move towards more informed assessments, appropriate supports and services, and better outcomes throughout life.
What Does the Research Tell Us?
The 428 co-occurring conditions identified in the research span a remarkably broad range of medical, developmental, neurological, psychological and physical presentations. They include conditions affecting the central nervous system, mental health, cardiovascular system, digestive system, sensory functioning, musculoskeletal development and other areas of health and development. The research highlights that FASD cannot be understood solely as a neurodevelopmental disability affecting learning and behaviour. Its potential impact can extend across multiple body systems and throughout a person's lifetime.
Who Are These Resources For?
These resources have been developed for anyone seeking a better understanding of the complexity of FASD, including:
- Healthcare professionals and clinicians involved in assessment, diagnosis and ongoing care.
- Educators and education professionals supporting students living with FASD.
- Parents, foster carers, adoptive parents, families and support networks.
- Researchers, academics and students studying FASD and associated conditions.
- Government departments, policymakers and organisations developing health, disability and education services.
Understanding the Research
It is important to understand that the identification of 428 co-occurring conditions does not mean that every person living with FASD will experience these conditions. Nor does the research establish that prenatal alcohol exposure directly causes every condition identified. Individual experiences vary considerably, reinforcing the importance of appropriate assessment, recognition of individual needs and person-centred support.
Access the original research findings and FASD Ireland's resources below:
Original research: Popova S, Lange S, Shield K, et al. (2016).
'Comorbidity of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis.' The Lancet.
The 428 conditions represent findings reported across the research reviewed by Popova et al. (2016).
They are not a prediction of the conditions an individual will experience, and co-occurrence does not establish causation.
