Proof Alliance NC encourages you to celebrate an alcohol-free pregnancy. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause a range of lifelong physical, behavioral, and intellectual disabilities known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). FASD cannot be cured, but it can be prevented by not drinking alcohol – including red wine, white wine, wine coolers, beer or hard liquor during your pregnancy.

In 2026 we will be continuing our work with Our State Magazine. We are excited to begin featuring our mocktail recipes as pairings with delicious dinner recipes.

To subscribe to the Our State Digital Recipe Box (and see how our delicious alcohol-free drinks pair with these meals), click the button below!

Subscribe to the Our State Magazine Recipe Box!

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#ALCOHOLAWARENESSMONTH

 Recent research is pointing to a concerning trend: alcohol use among women is increasing across all age groups, including those who may become pregnant. National data sources, such as the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) and multiple studies published in leading journals like JAMA, show rising rates of both overall alcohol consumption and binge drinking among women.

Particularly notable is the increase in binge drinking among young adults and college-aged women, as well as steady growth in alcohol use among middle-aged and older women. Researchers have also identified a rise in high-risk drinking behaviors, which can have significant health implications.

Several factors may be contributing to these trends. Studies suggest that targeted alcohol marketing toward women—especially during and following the COVID-19 pandemic—has played a role, alongside increased stress, social isolation, and shifting cultural norms around alcohol use.

These patterns are especially important to consider in the context of pregnancy. Alcohol use during pregnancy can impact fetal development and lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), a range of lifelong physical, behavioral, and learning challenges.

As alcohol consumption trends continue to shift, it is critical that we raise awareness, share accurate information, and support prevention efforts. By staying informed and having open, supportive conversations, we can help reduce alcohol-exposed pregnancies and promote healthier outcomes for families and communities.

This spring and summer, Proof Alliance NC will be providing presentations across the state focused on these emerging trends. Participants will gain evidence-based strategies to communicate about alcohol use and pregnancy in ways that are clear, supportive, stigma-free, and FASD-informed. As the research continues to evolve, we are committed to turning knowledge into prevention-based action across our communities.

Interested in discussing this issue more or having Proof Alliance NC present at one of your events? Contact us!

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#ALCOHOLAWARENESSMONTH

April is recognized as National Alcohol Awareness Month, a campaign launched in 1987 to increase understanding of the risks associated with alcohol misuse and to promote prevention, treatment, and recovery efforts. It serves as an important reminder that alcohol remains a significant public health concern, contributing to more than 178,000 deaths each year and increasing the risk of numerous health conditions.

In recognition of Alcohol Awareness Month, partner with Proof Alliance NC to increase awareness about the importance of preventing alcohol-exposed pregnancies by using graphics from the Centers for Disease Control and share across your social media, emails, websites, newsletters, blogs, or other print or digital communication. 

2026 Alcohol Awareness Toolkit

 #PROOFALLIANCE  #ALCOHOLANDPREGNANCY  #PREVENTFASD  #FASDMATTERS  #FASDUNITED  #FASDSUPPORT  #NCFASDINFORMED  #WEHAVETHEPROOF

#ALCOHOLAWARENESSMONTH

This publication from the American Psychological Association states, “Many individuals with FASD experience difficulties with memory and the ability to undertake goal-oriented behavior.  These challenges raise the risk of giving inaccurate or misleading accounts—not because they intend to deceive but because of a phenomenon called confabulation.”

  READ On!

 #PROOFALLIANCE  #ALCOHOLANDPREGNANCY  #PREVENTFASD  #FASDMATTERS  #FASDUNITED  #FASDSUPPORT  #NCFASDINFORMED  #WEHAVETHEPROOF

“New research shines a spotlight on the significant and often under-recognized role that fathers' health and well-being play in shaping pregnancy and child outcomes. The study, published in The Lancet, challenges the traditional approach to pregnancy care which focuses solely on mothers' behaviors… it is becoming clear that fathers have a real impact on pregnancy. Their own health and behaviors like their weight, whether they use substances, and their age can influence pregnancy and child outcomes - not just the pregnant person's.”

 View abstract! 

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 “Over one-third of pregnant individuals who used alcohol also used at least one additional substance. Observed associations with maternal mental health and SES highlight opportunities for targeted policy, enhanced screening, and tailored interventions to support maternal and child health.”
- Drug and Alcohol Dependence

  READ On!

 #PROOFALLIANCE  #ALCOHOLANDPREGNANCY  #PREVENTFASD  #FASDMATTERS  #FASDUNITED  #FASDSUPPORT  #NCFASDINFORMED  #WEHAVETHEPROOF