Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological developmental disorder, characterised by challenges with social interactions and repetitive or limited behavioural patterns. There are currently five different types of ASD, including;
- Autistic disorder
- Pervasive Developmental Disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS)
- Rett syndrome
- Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD) and
- Asperger’s syndrome.
Elevating autism care in the GCC for meaningful change
According to the World Health Organisation, globally 1 in 160 children has ASD. Our latest report, “From awareness to action: Elevating autism care in the GCC for meaningful change”, focuses on Autism Spectrum Disorder, a condition where the term "spectrum" describes the wide range of symptoms, skills, and degrees of disability that people with autism may experience. The spectrum can range from level 1, “requiring support”, to level 3, “requiring very substantial support”. A definitive diagnosis of autism is typically made between the ages of 3 and 4 years old as it relies on identifying distinct behavioural impairments that usually become apparent in the second year of a child's life. Even though autism can be diagnosed at a young age, its management can span one's lifetime, necessitating a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to care catering to the unique needs across the spectrum and throughout their lives.
The three functional levels of autism
ASD Level 1Requiring support
- Difficulty initiating social interactions
- Organisation and planning problems can hamper independence
ASD Level 2Requiring substantial support
- Social interactions limited to narrow special interests
- Frequent restricted/repetitive behaviours
ASD Level 3Requiring very substantial support
- Severe deficits in verbal and nonverbal social communication skills
- Great distress/difficulty changing actions or focus
Research has shown that early detection of autism can lead to better prognosis, higher chances of rehabilitation and improved integration into society, as children transition into adulthood. This support must span across all sectors, including healthcare, education and employment, to ensure individuals reach their fullest potential and can be active members of society.
“From awareness to action: Elevating autism care in the GCC for meaningful change” explores autism in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, examining its significance, prevalence as well as its social and economic influences on families. It draws insights from interviews with families caring for individuals with autism and healthcare professionals, as well as additional research to provide a comprehensive picture of the impact of autism on societies.
The report also reviews recent initiatives related to autism in the region, alongside global best practices, and concludes with a series of targeted recommendations to better support individuals with autism and build an inclusive society for all.
“It's very humbling to be a parent to my son. It brought out hidden gems in me that I didn't know I was capable of. We often think that happiness has a single definition, but through parenting I've learned that children [with autism] see the world and happiness in a different way. Our way of happiness is not necessarily theirs.”
A parent intervieweeRecommendations
In order to successfully and sustainably implement these recommendations, GCC governments must take a multidisciplinary approach involving key stakeholders from all sectors, healthcare providers, researchers, and families and caregivers of people with autism. It is crucial for the success of new initiatives to also include the voices of individuals living with autism in the decision-making process. This will allow governments to understand the lived experiences of society and develop relevant and inclusive initiatives and policies that start in childhood and continue to empower and enrich lives throughout adulthood.
“We have a voice. If we escalate our needs, our voice will be heard.”
A parent interviewee
