ISLAMABAD: The consolidated data on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is unavailable, but there is a noticeable increase in the number of children being diagnosed with the disease.

This was informed by speakers during an event, organised in connection with World Autism Awareness Day, held at Maroof International Hospital.

It is pertinent to mention that ASD is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. ASD begins at the age of three and lasts throughout a person’s life, although symptoms may improve over time.

Studies have shown that one-third of parents of children with ASD noticed a problem before their child’s first birthday, and others saw problems by 24 months of age. Some children with ASD seem to develop normally until around 18 to 24 months of age and then stop gaining new skills, or they lose the skills they once had.

Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Pakistan, Rongvudhi Virabutr, said, “Early diagnosis can change a child’s entire future. We must move beyond pity and focus on creating opportunities for every child to live with dignity.”

He highlighted societal challenges, shared Thailand’s “Steps with Theera” vocational initiative, and reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to support autism care in Pakistan.

CEO of hospital, Haroon Naseer, said: “Autism awareness is a responsibility. We must create systems that nurture potential and give every child the opportunity to thrive.” Medical Director Dr Mir Waheed added: “Early intervention is as critical as emergency care. Awareness must lead to immediate action to ensure better outcomes for children.”

Speaker Tehreem Khan Bangash emphasised: “With structured support and evidence-based interventions, children with autism can communicate, connect, and achieve independence.

According to the Autism Society of Pakistan, there is no reliable data to estimate the occurrence of autism in Pakistan, but some estimates put the number at 350,000 children with autism in Pakistan. They are not easily identifiable, as it is not a physical disease that can be diagnosed easily by tests.

But in the USA, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) determined that approximately 1 in 59 children is diagnosed with ASD. So Pakistan should take it as a matter of serious concern as well.

Published in Dawn, April 5th, 2026