Lost time-Need for more awareness in early intervention of autism spectrum disorder

Delay in the diagnosis and early intervention for Autism spectrum disorders has been observed across cultures and within the same cultural context. With the current evidence base for early intervention there is a need for greater awareness for early recognition, evaluation and intervention. This brief report discusses the average age at recognition to initiation of intervention and possible ways to address delay. Since early intervention programs for ASD results in favourable outcome, it would be good practice to routinely screen children at first consultation and initiate intervention in any child suspected to be 'At Risk' for ASD.