An alcohol abuse expert says more needs to be done to prevent Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and help those who have it.

The Northland DHB has been developing diagnostic systems and putting steps in place to accommodate those with the disorder into adulthood after it was realised that it was a prevalent problem in the region.

But alcohol health watch promoter, Christine Rogan says the problem is nationwide and other regions also need to take action.

"It really takes health, justice, education, social welfare to be sitting around the table saying, 'what role can I play in either preventing it in the first place or preventing further harm to those born affected."