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Rising Autism Rates in Pakistan: Causes and Contributing Factors


Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. In recent years, Pakistan has witnessed a noticeable increase in the reported cases of autism. While this trend may appear alarming, research shows that the rise is not due to a sudden surge in actual cases but rather to a combination of better awareness, improved diagnosis, reduced stigma, and environmental and biological factors.

Why Are Autism Rates Increasing in Pakistan?

1. Improved Awareness and Recognition

In the past, many children with autism were misunderstood or mislabeled as having “speech delay” or “mental retardation.” Today, parents, teachers, and doctors are better informed, leading to more accurate identification (Samad, Chaudhary, & Webb, 2017).

2. Better Diagnostic Tools and Broader Criteria

The use of standardized screening tools such as the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) and internationally recognized guidelines like DSM-5 has enabled clinicians to diagnose autism more effectively than before (Syed, Hussein, & Haider, 2008).

3. Reduced Stigma and Greater Help-Seeking

Social stigma once forced families to hide children with developmental challenges. Today, increasing acceptance of special education and support groups has encouraged families to seek assessments, contributing to the higher reported prevalence (Imran et al., 2012).

4. Reflection of Global Trends

Globally, autism rates have risen for similar reasons—broader definitions, better screening, and increased public awareness. Pakistan’s rising numbers mirror these international patterns (Elsabbagh et al., 2012).

Factors That Contribute to Autism in Pakistan

Although improved awareness explains much of the increase, several genetic, biological, and environmental factors also play a role in autism development:

1. Genetic Predisposition

Autism often runs in families and is influenced by genetic variations. Consanguineous marriages, common in Pakistan, may increase the risk of passing on certain genetic traits linked with autism.

2. Parental Age

Research suggests that advanced maternal and paternal age at the time of conception raises the likelihood of autism in children (Khan & Mahmood, 2020).

3. Pregnancy and Birth Complications

Premature birth, low birth weight, and oxygen deprivation during delivery are linked to higher autism risk. In Pakistan, limited access to quality maternal healthcare makes these factors more significant.

4. Environmental Exposures

Pollution, pesticides, and heavy metal contamination are associated with brain development problems. With rising urbanization and poor environmental regulations, such risks are particularly concerning (Khan & Mahmood, 2020).

5. Nutritional Deficiencies

Lack of essential nutrients such as vitamin D, folic acid, and omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy may increase the chances of developmental disorders. Malnutrition, common in parts of Pakistan, adds to this risk.

6. Neurobiological and Medical Factors

Differences in brain connectivity and structure, sometimes caused by infections during pregnancy (e.g., rubella), may contribute to autism.

Conclusion

The rising rate of autism in Pakistan does not necessarily indicate a sudden increase in new cases but rather reflects greater awareness, improved diagnostic methods, and changing social attitudes. However, environmental risks, parental factors, and genetic predispositions also play an important role in shaping autism prevalence.

Recognizing these factors is crucial for planning effective policies, early intervention programs, and public health strategies. As Pakistan continues to develop awareness and resources, the focus should be on supporting families, training professionals, and improving maternal and child healthcare to ensure better outcomes for individuals with autism.

References

  • Elsabbagh, M., Divan, G., Koh, Y. J., et al. (2012). Global prevalence of autism and other pervasive developmental disorders. Autism Research, 5(3), 160–179.
  • Imran, N., Azeem, M. W., Hussain, S., & Bhatti, M. R. (2012). Autism in Pakistan: Perspectives of Pakistani psychiatrists. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 42(12), 2721–2728.
  • Khan, M., & Mahmood, K. (2020). Environmental risk factors associated with autism spectrum disorder in Pakistani children. Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences, 36(3), 492–497.
  • Samad, L., Chaudhary, N., & Webb, T. (2017). Autism spectrum disorders: Perceptions and experiences of Pakistani parents. Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal, 23(7), 463–468.
  • Syed, E. U., Hussein, S. A., & Haider, I. I. (2008). Screening of autistic children in Pakistan using M-CHAT. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 38(7), 1425–1432.


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