Adequate Management of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Children in India

Rajneesh Mahajan1,2, Rajesh Sagar3

  • 1Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA. mahajan@kennedykrieger.org.

Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|September 29, 2022
PubMed

Insights

India faces challenges in addressing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) care, from early screening to professional training. A proposed framework emphasizes education, infrastructure, and technology to improve services for children with ASD.

Area of Science:

  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) presents a significant public health challenge in India.
  • Existing healthcare systems exhibit unmet needs in ASD screening, evaluation, and management.
  • Gaps in professional training and public awareness impede early recognition and intervention for ASD.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify and address critical unmet needs in the healthcare system for children with ASD in India.
  • To propose a comprehensive framework for improving ASD care across multiple levels.
  • To enhance early recognition, diagnosis, and management of ASD.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and analysis of current ASD care infrastructure in India.
  • Identification of gaps in medical professional, paraprofessional, and special education teacher training.
  • Assessment of public awareness and cultural factors influencing ASD intervention.

Main Results:

  • Significant deficiencies exist in screening, diagnostic tools, and management strategies for ASD.
  • Inadequate training programs and infrastructure hinder effective service delivery.
  • Limited public awareness and cultural barriers contribute to delayed interventions.

Conclusions:

  • A multi-level framework is proposed to improve ASD care in India.
  • Key components include enhanced education for professionals, robust infrastructure development with funding, and leveraging technology and international collaboration.
  • Implementing this framework can significantly improve outcomes for children with ASD.

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