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A new project aimed at reducing Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) in the Pilbara has been launched today in South Hedland.
The project called 'Warajanga Marnti Warrarnja - Together we walk on country' is a partnership between The Kids Research Institute Australia and BHP Billiton in collaboration with Wirraka Maya Health Services and the Hedland FASD Network.
Working with the community, the project has the bold goal to make FASD history in the Pilbara and builds upon the successful FASD prevention model in the Kimberley, the Marulu Strategy.
The research in the Pilbara is focussed on three main areas:
- Reducing the prevalence of FASD in the Hedland area
- Diagnosis of children who might have FASD
- Support for children and families affected by FASD
Project lead, The Kids Research Institute Australia paediatrician Dr James Fitzpatrick, says the project will measurably and sustainably improve the health of Aboriginal children in the Pilbara by supporting the development and implementation of a Hedland Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) strategy.
"Our efforts will be focussed on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, family support, capacity building and policy advocacy," said Dr Fitzpatrick, "as well as measuring the impact of the interventions on such indicators as birth outcomes, school readiness, Aboriginal employment and local FASD service capacity."
"A critical focus will be on building the knowledge and capacity of families with children with FASD, and increasing their confidence in engaging with services."
Dr Fitzpatrick said FASD represents a community crisis and needs to be addressed urgently.
"The Pilbara community is driven to overcome one of their most significant social and public health issues," said Dr Fitzpatrick. "There is hope and a passion to make things different, and courage to partner in high impact research on this sensitive issue."
Head of Aboriginal Health Research at The Kids Research Institute Australia, Mr Glenn Pearson, said today's launch confirms this project as the Institute's flagship in the Pilbara.
"This project adds to an extensive program of Aboriginal research at the Institute of which BHP Billiton has been a long term partner and importantly a solid foundation to address the health and wellbeing for Aboriginal children, young people, families and communities across the Pilbara," said Mr Pearson.
Dr Fitzpatrick acknowledged the incredible investment from BHP Billiton in this project - $1 million a year for five years - to help communities make FASD history.
"The support of BHP Billiton is unprecedented in terms of research support and we are excited to be partnering with them on this community research project," said Dr Fitzpatrick.
Michael Bailey, General Manager Rail for BHP Billiton Iron Ore, highlighted the importance of this project in giving children a better start to life.
"Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is the most common, preventable cause of disabilities and brain damage in children often leaving children born with FASD with lifelong learning and behavioural problems which impact on their ability to achieve," said Mr Bailey.
"Through our partnership with The Kids Research Institute Australia we are hoping to improve a child's quality of life, by reducing the prevalence of FASD and improving the outcomes of children who are diagnosed with FASD".
Michael said that BHP Billiton's investment was made possible through BHP Billiton Iron Ore's Community Development Program, which has contributed more than $300 million over the past five years to health, education, Indigenous development and community infrastructure initiatives in Western Australia.
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About FASD
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is characterised by severe neurodevelopmental impairment resulting from an unborn child's exposure to alcohol during pregnancy. The effects of prenatal alcohol exposure are life-long and may not be seen at birth. Problems include brain damage leading to delayed development, social, behavioural and learning problems. These can lead to secondary outcomes such as poor school performance, unemployment, substance abuse, mental health problems and early engagement with the justice system.
Media contacts:
Tammy Gibbs, The Kids Research Institute Australia
0408 946 698 or tammy.gibbs@telethonkids.org.au
Jasmine Raisbeck, The Kids Research Institute Australia
0437 575 875 or jasmine.raisbeck@telethonkids.org.au
Leanne Franco, BHP Billiton
0477 761 136 or Leanne.franco@bhpbilliton.com