Today marks World Autism Awareness Day, a global event dedicated to raising awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a lifelong condition that affects a child's ability to communicate, learn, and interact socially.

As awareness spreads, experts have raised concerns about the growing prevalence of autism in Pakistan, with statistics showing a concerning increase in cases.

Rising autism in Pakistan

According to medical professionals, the rate of autism in Pakistan is climbing at an alarming rate. Dr. Fatima Sarwar, an autism specialist, noted that one in every 36 children is now affected by autism, compared to one in 56 just last year, and one in 80 in previous years.

The condition affects boys at a higher rate than girls and continues to rise, with experts urging parents and caregivers to seek early intervention.

Signs and symptoms of autism

Autism manifests differently in each individual, with varying degrees of severity. Dr. Tehreem Bangash, an autism specialist, explained that signs of autism can often be detected early, and early diagnosis is crucial for effective intervention.

“If a child does not respond to their name being called or shows signs of delayed speech -- such as not speaking two words by the age of one or not knowing 25 words by the age of one and a half - - it’s important to consult a doctor or speech therapist,” Dr. Bangash said.

Children with autism may also struggle with social interactions, preferring to be alone and avoiding friendships or interaction with peers. This isolation can persist if the condition is left untreated, potentially affecting the child’s ability to lead a normal life.

Autism is non-fatal but lifelong

While autism is not life-threatening, it remains a lifelong condition. The disorder affects an individual’s ability to speak, learn, and understand the world around them. Medical experts agree that while autism is not fatal, individuals with ASD may not achieve the same level of social and communicative functioning as their peers.

Call for awareness and early diagnosis

The increasing number of autism cases calls for a more robust understanding of the condition in Pakistan. Experts emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and intervention, which can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals affected by autism.

As World Autism Awareness Day aims to shed light on these issues, doctors and specialists continue to advocate for greater awareness and support for families navigating autism.