Autism- towards comprehensive assessment and management

Autism is a pervasive, neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by stereotyped movements and impairment in social skills and communication patterns. Prevalence patterns show an increasing burden of about 1 in 150 children affected by the disorder. Most affected individuals have symptoms that interfere greatly with quality of life. Although a burgeoning concern, research on the prevalence, etiological factors and presentation patterns is limited in LAMI countries, leading to a minimal understanding of the disorder at individual, professional and societal level. There is an urgent need to enhance awareness and education to decrease stigma that maybe associated with autism