Current Studies
Collaborative Initiative on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) – Neurobehavioral Project
Our current CIFASD project is focused on the development of web-based screening and assessment tools. We have developed two main tools, the FASD-Tree and BRAIN-online.
FASD-Tree
The FASD-Tree is a web-based, clinical screening tool for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) developed by Dr. Sarah Mattson and her team. Using results from a brief physical examination and parent-reported behavioral questionnaires, the FASD-Tree generates 1) a dichotomous (yes/no) variable indicating whether exposure is suspected and 2) a risk score ranging from 0 to 5 with higher scores indicating greater risk of neurodevelopmental difficulties related to prenatal alcohol exposure. This tool was developed in response to high rates of misdiagnosis of FASD or missed diagnosis altogether. The FASD-Tree is a valid and accurate tool that is intended to screen for FASD in clinical settings.
BRAIN-online
BRAIN-online is a web-based tool used to screen for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). Developed by Dr. Sarah Mattson and her team, BRAIN-online assesses cognitive and behavioral features that have been associated with FASD. Importantly, BRAIN-online is intended for general population use in individuals 5 and older. BRAIN-online takes around 30-45 minutes to complete and the only requirement is an internet-connected computer or tablet with keyboard. BRAIN-online does not determine whether an individual has a diagnosis of FASD but provides information on whether responses are consistent with cognitive and behavioral features associated with FASD. This information can help individuals or clinicians decide if further screening is warranted.
Office of Youth and Community Restoration FASD Study
https://mattson.sdsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/10.31-FASD-Adult-Resources-Online-Version-1.pdf
Few studies have examined the prevalence of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) in the populations of youth and young adults involved in foster care and probation systems, although data suggest that these groups are at high risk for FASD. In collaboration with the County of San Diego Department of Probation and Child and Family Well-Being Department, researchers at the University of California San Diego and San Diego State University are working on a study with the goal of establishing a preliminary estimate of the prevalence of FASD in the San Diego county foster care and probation systems. This evidence will help identify specific health and neurobehavioral needs of youth involved in State or County care systems and inform future efforts to address the effects of FASD in these high-risk populations.
The Internet Study of COVID-19, Alcohol, and Neurocognition
(The iCAN Study)
Our current CIFASD project is focused on the development of web-based screening and assessment tools. We have developed two main tools, the FASD-Tree and BRAIN-online.