Autism spectrum disorder in Saudi Arabia: Clinical dynamics from a multi-center study

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impairments in communication, social interaction, and behavior. This study aimed to explore the factors influencing the clinical presentation of children with ASD in Saudi Arabia, focusing on demographic, medical, and environmental determinants.

A multi-center, cross-sectional study was conducted in Saudi Arabia, enrolling 104 children diagnosed with ASD. Data were collected via structured parent interviews and analyzed to examine the relationships between demographic characteristics, therapy participation, self-care abilities, and clinical symptoms.

Male children were more likely to exhibit hyperactivity compared to females (p=0.037). Age was significantly associated with delayed speech (p=0.003), aggression (p=0.034), attention deficits (p=0.006), sleeping problems (p=0.001), and anxiety (p=0.007). Self-care abilities - such as bathroom independence and dressing - improved significantly with age (p<0.05). Therapy participation varied with 49% receiving speech therapy, 44.2% engaged in behavioral therapy and 5.8% currently undergoing physiotherapy. Approximately, 34.6% had received occupational therapy for less than one year.

The clinical presentation of ASD in Saudi Arabia is influenced by demographic and environmental factors, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and individualized interventions. The findings underscore the importance of improving therapy access and parental support to address persistent challenges, such as hyperactivity, learning difficulties, and limited self-care skills.