Inuvik (Sep 12/03) - Sunday marked the 30th anniversary of the discovery of alcohol-related birth defects in the medical community.

On Sept. 9, 1973, researchers at Washington State University formally identified Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.

Around the world communities are declaring that day as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Day, where people will walk, talk and educate each other to help raise awareness to FASD that researchers say has seen a spike of epidemic proportions in the last decade and continues unabated.

Inuvik Regional Health and Social Services organized a walk on Sunday, followed by a free barbecue and concert in Chief Jim Koe Park.

"We all know that fetal alcohol syndrome is preventable, but to recognize it, we need to have supports for mothers in many cases," said Sharon Spinks of the Inuvik FASD Working Group, following the walk.

Spinks said the issue of FASD is part of a much larger problem plaguing the town.

"I think the community has to start looking at the issue of addictions and the impact on families and on our children," she said. Prenatal exposure to alcohol is a reality we all have to deal with in and around the community, she said, but people can't help by blaming the mothers.

"Look at the moms and give them some support," Spinks advised the crowd. "Don't judge them, and take them under our wings."

"Each and everyone of the moms that I know, who have birthed a child that is affected, certainly doesn't need to be judged."

Alfred Moses, community health representative, said attendance at this year's walk was down a bit, but they are still getting the message out there.

"There were less people than last year, but still a good crowd," Moses said.

"I'd say well over 100 people attended."

Recently, there was a name change from Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Effects, to FASD -- an all-encompassing term.

"It's not just looking at a certain diagnosis," Moses explained.

"It's looking at anything that can affect a child at anytime during addictions lifestyles during a pregnancy." He said they plan to have a logo contest in the elementary school to develop a logo specific for the Inuvik area, which they will transfer onto T-shirts and printed materials to help raise awareness.

Some classes at the high school have allowed guest speakers to come in and talk to the students about the dangers of FASD.

"It's best to start them off young."