Cross-cultural differences in autistic characteristics: a comparison between Spain and Colombia

Area of Science:

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Psychiatry
• Global Health Disparities

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) prevalence is increasing globally, with higher reported incidence in developed nations.
• Latin America faces challenges in autism research due to a lack of psychometrically validated diagnostic and detection instruments.
• Understanding geographical variations in ASD presentation is crucial for equitable healthcare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and compare the characteristics and traits of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in individuals from Spain and Colombia.
• To identify potential differences in ASD presentation between a European and a Latin American population.
• To highlight the need for culturally adapted and validated diagnostic tools in regions like Latin America.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of ASD traits between Spanish and Colombian cohorts.
• Assessment of sample characteristics including age, sex, and ASD type.
• Evaluation of diagnostic comorbidity, specifically with intellectual disability.

Main Results:

• No significant differences were observed in age, sex, or ASD type between the Spanish and Colombian samples.
• Significant differences in diagnostic comorbidity with intellectual disability were identified between the two groups.
• Colombian individuals with ASD demonstrated higher severity in stereotypes, compulsions, and restricted interests compared to the Spanish cohort.

Conclusions:

• While core ASD characteristics may be consistent, specific symptom severity and comorbidity patterns can differ geographically.
• Factors inherent to the Colombian sample likely influenced the observed differences, underscoring the need for context-specific research.
• Future research should focus on increasing sample sizes and rigorously validating autism assessment instruments in Colombia and similar regions.