On 26 February 2026, an expert conference titled “Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders: Diagnostic Challenges. Situation in Lithuania and the Klaipėda Region” was held at Klaipeda University Hospital (KUH).

The event was dedicated to raising awareness of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), a significant yet still under-recognised public health issue. The conference brought together healthcare professionals and experts to discuss diagnostic challenges, interdisciplinary cooperation, and the need for coordinated support systems for affected children and their families.

During the conference, KUH specialists and invited experts presented medical, social and cross-sectoral aspects of FASD. Particular attention was given to early diagnosis, professional capacity building and the development of coordinated care pathways.

Representatives of Klaipeda University Hospital also introduced the objectives and activities of the project “FASD-Bridge”, highlighting the importance of strengthening early detection of FASD and improving cooperation between healthcare, social and educational sectors across the Baltic region.

The conference contributed to increasing awareness among healthcare professionals, strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration and disseminating project goals at the regional level.

More information about the event can be found here:

• Event page

• News article

• Social media post