Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is defined as a complex neurodevelopmental condition that marks challenges in social communication, restricted benefits and repetitive behavior. As a spectrum disorder, its manifestations vary greatly in severity and form. While some may require ongoing support, others may operate independently but still face significant social and behavioral barriers. The causes of ASD are still multifactorial, and both genetic susceptibility and environmental factors are considered to be contributing.
In India, a significant increase in autism diagnosis has been observed in recent years. According to the Inclusive Research, the estimated prevalence rate is 1.12 per 100 children. This increase is largely attributed to increased public awareness, changes in diagnostic criteria, and a decrease in stigma traditionally associated with neurodevelopmental status. While this trend reflects a positive shift in social attitudes and access to healthcare, it also reveals key gaps in available resources and professional services.
In the past, autism has been often overlooked or misdiagnosed, especially in rural and underserved areas. The limited knowledge of healthcare professionals, coupled with social misunderstandings, often delay or prevent timely recognition. However, increased awareness among parents, educators and clinicians leads to early recommendations and more accurate diagnosis. Although risk factors such as senior father age and nuclear family setting have been proposed, strong scientific evidence for establishing causality remains inconclusive.
The key factor that leads to this change is the gradual decrease in social stigma. In the early stages, families often avoid seeking professional assessments due to concerns about judgment or marginalization. Today, a more well-known and receptive environment has been cultivated to encourage caregivers to conduct early intervention and professional assistance without fear or hesitation.
Early intervention is internationally considered a key determinant of the developmental effectiveness of children with ASD. Research has been showing that interventions initiated before three ages can measurably improve communication, social skills, cognitive and behavioral regulation. In early childhood, neuroplasticity of the developing brain makes therapeutic strategies more efficiently absorbed and translated into functional skills.
Therapies such as applied behavioral analysis, speech and speech therapy, occupational therapy, and parent-mediated interventions have been found to be most effective when introduced early. The active participation of caregivers in therapy courses and family-based technology enhancements has shown significant improvements in progress and ensuring continuity of development support.
Despite these advances, the rate of rising diagnostic rates still puts a lot of pressure on the healthcare system. A severe shortage of well-trained development professionals, limited multidisciplinary treatment services, and a lack of inclusive education infrastructure have become urgent concerns. To address these challenges, Ankura Hospital has established a comprehensive child development center that provides screening, diagnostic and structured intervention programs for children with ASD and other developmental delays. A multidisciplinary team of developing pediatricians, psychologists, speech pathologists, occupational therapists and special educators can collaborate in managing nursing care. Open policies have been adopted to encourage parents to participate in treatment courses and conduct regular parent training programs to establish long-term support mechanisms at home.
The increase in the diagnosis of autism in India marks a turning point in the country’s discourse on the growth of children. While this suggests an increasing understanding and recognition of neurodevelopmental status, it also marks an urgent call for systematic improvements to early intervention visits, professional training, policy development and inclusive support frameworks. Through ongoing awareness efforts, investment in healthcare infrastructure, and participation in collaborative communities, children with ASD can give them the greatest potential and live affluent, independent life.
