Hyderabad: Medical experts have risen sharply in India and around the world in diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), urging radical early screening campaigns, trained preschool workers, and stricter supervision of treatment centers.
Global data show that the autism rate is unprecedented: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now estimates that one in eight-year-old children meet ASD standards, up from 150 in 2000. CEDCIndian's research shows that it can be translated into up to 1 of 65 children aged 2 to 9 nationwide.
Kavadiguda's Suman Saraf recalls her son born in 2001, showing abnormal behaviors and frequent seizures, and recalls “more than 20 doctors in a month” visiting. “It was hard to find qualified help at that time, and fake clinics were everywhere,” she told Deccan Chronicle.
“Autism is a neurological developmental disease, not a disease. It can change the outcome early on,” Dr. Sutitra, a professor of pediatrics at Nilover Hospital, said in an interview. She noted that cases have “leap further” since 2020, and the prevalence among boys is still three times higher.
Developmental neurologist Dr. Prashant attributes the increase in the increase to a variety of factors: increased awareness among parents, environmental triggers, genetic vulnerability, increased nuclear families, excessive screening time, and reduced peer interactions. “Human participation has dropped dramatically,” he said.
Experts warn parents to verify their certificates before admission to treatment. “Unregulated clinics are emerging; profits often outweigh proper interventions,” Dr. Sutra warned. “Multidiscipline care is being provided at the lowest cost,” she said.
Saraf believes that preschoolers need well-trained teachers who can spot red flags. Experts responded to the call, urging pediatric clinics to distribute literature on development milestones. “Playing schools and pediatricians, if they act as the first response screen, can change the game,” Dr. Prashant said.
Doctors say shame and denial are still major obstacles. Dr. Sutra observes: “Parents often resist diagnosis because of social stigma,” highlighting broader public education to normalize ASD and highlighting success stories of world leaders and entrepreneurs living in this situation.
Public health advocates are lobbying for the national autism screening program and stricter treatment center licensing. Meanwhile, families like Saraf’s rising awareness of hope avoid the uncertainty that others once faced. “If the teacher knew the signs then we might have started treatment early,” she said.
Experts identify symptoms of autism in children:
*No eye contact
*Inadequate response to the name nine months later
*Voice delay of 12 months
*They only show gestures
*Repeat moments
*Sensitive sensors
*The drama that lacks conceit
* Participation in self-play.
