The symptoms of ASDs typically are present before age 3 years and often are
accompanied by abnormalities in cognitive functioning, learning, attention, and sensory
processing.
A formal diagnosis is generally not made until the age of five.
The vast majority of cases of autism are idiopathic, the best scientific evidence
available to us today points toward a potential for various combinations of factors,
namely multiple genetic components and certain environmental and socio-economic
factors. Timing of exposure during the child's development (before, during or after
birth) may also play a role in the development or final presentation of the disorder.
Objectives:
To estimate the effect of certain socio-economic and other risk factors on the
prevalence of Autism in Qatar.
Methods:
The target population for this study are children diagnosed with Autism attending the
Shafallah Center for children with special needs.
Clinical evaluation is conducted by a developmental psychologist, and/or pediatrician, it
includes a medical, developmental, and behavioral history; a standard physical and
neurologic examination, In addition, the Autism Diagnostic Interview (ADI-R), and
Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-G (ADOS-G) will be administered.
Results:
Preliminary analysis of 171 subjects showed the highest prevalence among age group
7-14 years (61%).
Male/female ratio was 82% /18%, which is around 5/1.
Other factors like consanguinity,education,and family income found to have an effect
on the prevelance of the disease in Qatar.
Conclusions:
Obtaining a reliable estimate is important in planning for providing the best health care
and educational services needed to improve the overall outcome of Autism in Qatar.
See more of: Epidemiology
See more of: Prevalence, Risk factors & Intervention