WHO South-East Asia regional strategy on autism spectrum disorders

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorders (‎ASD)‎ comprise a range of developmental disorders characterized by impairment in functions related to central nervous system maturation. This umbrella term covers conditions such as autism, childhood disintegrative disorder and Asperger syndrome. The estimated global median prevalence is 62/10 000, that is one child in 160 has an autism spectrum disorder and subsequent disability. ASDs account for 0.3% of all disability-adjusted life years and impose a huge emotional and economic burden on families. Caring for children with these disorders is demanding, especially in contexts where access to services and support are inadequate. Worldwide, most individuals with such a disorder and their families do not receive adequate care from health or social care systems.