Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is a preventable condition caused by alcohol exposure during pregnancy, leading to cognitive, physical, and behavioral impairments in newborns. It is one of the leading preventable causes of developmental disabilities worldwide, with profound and lifelong effects on individuals and families. FAS affects less than 1% of the general population globally, but South Africa is disproportionately impacted, with over 6% of the population diagnosed with the disorder. Despite this, the South African government and the Department of Health have made limited efforts to address the issue. This study aimed to explore the causes and consequences of FAS in South Africa using interviews and secondary data. Our findings highlight the pervasive and long-lasting effects of alcohol consumption during pregnancy, particularly cognitive impairments and physical developmental delays in affected children. In regions with high alcohol consumption, we found a direct correlation between higher rates of FAS and a lack of public awareness about the risks of drinking during pregnancy. Interviews with healthcare providers revealed significant barriers to prenatal care, with many expectant mothers in rural and economically disadvantaged areas unable to access timely guidance or screenings. These findings underscore the urgent need for action to address FAS in South Africa. The high prevalence of the disorder calls for substantial investment in awareness campaigns, particularly in rural communities, and improvements in healthcare infrastructure to ensure all pregnant women have access to education and prenatal care. Strengthening these areas is essential to reducing the long-term societal and economic costs of FAS and improving the well-being of affected individuals and families.