Autism Spectrum Disorders & other neuro-developmental disabilities in low resource contexts: Technological advancements in African setting

ICNC2024
Symposia: Current Concepts In Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorders & other neuro-developmental disabilities in low resource contexts: Technological advancements in African setting
Petrus De Vries

The lack of awareness of autism spectrum disorder is not only apparent in the general population in Africa, but also among the medical community. Low resource communities also face significant challenges regarding the adequate availability of diagnostic-, treatment-, and support-services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Specifically, a variety of factors, including geographic distance between families and service providers, low reliance on health care professionals, and cultural characteristics, contribute to the diminished availability and utilization of services. Together, these factors lead to risks for delayed ASD screening and diagnosis, yielding lower educational and functional outcomes. Specific diagnosis and treatment barriers affect individuals with ASD and their families in low resource settings. Telehealth feasibility and efficacy research suggests that telecommunication services may offer an inroad for addressing the specific service barriers faced by low resource communities.

Other Lecturers in this symposium
Early intervention in autism spectrum disorder: Early is how early and Focus on interdisciplinary management of behavior in Autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders
Advances in genetics of Autism in African populations: Evolving concepts
Motor disturbances in Autism: Current concepts