New research from AWARE.org reveals that South Africa’s response to alcohol harm during pregnancy is still struggling to turn awareness into behaviour change. While most people understand that drinking during pregnancy can be harmful, the findings show that poverty, trauma, stigma, misinformation and social norms continue to shape risky environments for expectant mothers. The research positions Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder as a wider community issue, not simply a maternal one.

New research commissioned by AWARE.org highlights that FASD prevention in South Africa requires more than awareness campaigns. A whole-of-society approach is needed, one that addresses social norms, economic pressures, support systems and community environments.

Easter road safety data points to early progress as enforcement and behaviour change begin working in tandem, reinforcing a simple truth: no one travels alone, and every decision on the road carries wider consequences.