Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Nurseries in Lebanon: A Cross Sectional Study
Monique Chaaya1, Dahlia Saab2, Fadi T Maalouf3
1Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
Insights
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) prevalence in Lebanese toddlers is 1 in 66 children, similar to the US. This study provides the first ASD prevalence estimate for Lebanon, highlighting the need for further research.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Public Health
Background:
- No prior autism prevalence data exists for Lebanon.
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a significant neurodevelopmental condition.
- Understanding prevalence is crucial for resource allocation and early intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the prevalence of ASD in toddlers in Beirut and Mount-Lebanon.
- To identify potential associated factors for ASD in the Lebanese toddler population.
- To establish a baseline for future epidemiological studies on ASD in Lebanon.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study design involving 998 toddlers (16-48 months) from 177 nurseries.
- Utilized the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) for initial screening.
- Employed a self-administered questionnaire for associated factors and imputed missing M-CHAT data.
Main Results:
- The estimated prevalence of ASD was 1 in 66 children, comparable to US estimates.
- The male to female ratio for ASD was 1.05:1.
- A slightly higher prevalence was observed in Beirut compared to Mount-Lebanon (1.2:1).
Conclusions:
- This study provides the first ASD prevalence estimate in Lebanon.
- The findings suggest a prevalence rate similar to that in the United States.
- Further research with larger, more representative samples and follow-up assessments is recommended for more accurate prevalence data.
Abstract:
In Lebanon, no estimate for autism prevalence exists. This cross-sectional study examines the prevalence of Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in toddlers in nurseries in Beirut and Mount-Lebanon. The final sample included 998 toddlers (16-48 months) from 177 nurseries. We sent parents the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) for screening, and a self-administered questionnaire (associated factors). We imputed missing M-CHAT data with successful answers. Since there were no follow-up interviews for the M-CHAT, we used the positive predictive value (0.058) from a large study for prevalence estimates. ASD prevalence was 1 in 66 children (comparable to US). Ratios were: male/female: 1.05; Beirut/Mount-Lebanon: 1.2. Using a more representative sample and ascertaining results are needed for better prevalence estimates in Lebanon.
More Related Videos
06:15Using the Visual World Paradigm to Study Sentence Comprehension in Mandarin-Speaking Children with Autism
Published on: October 3, 2018
10:11Portable Intermodal Preferential Looking IPL: Investigating Language Comprehension in Typically Developing Toddlers and Young Children with Autism
Published on: December 14, 2012
Related Concept Videos
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Prevalence and Incidence
Prevalence indicates the proportion of individuals in a population who have a specific disease or health...
Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
