RAK Hospital initiates month-long free screening for Autism disorder

The awareness campaign highlights the need for early diagnosis and intervention

• Sessions include Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) therapy, physio and speech therapy, behavioural modifi¬cation and counselling
• Autism can be detected at ages as early as 6 to 18 months; high prevalence in UAE
• Parents advised to closely monitor their toddlers’ motor and mental development, seek professional guidance

Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, April 5. 2016:  In conjunction with World Autism Awareness Day, RAK Hospital, UAE’s premier healthcare institution, has initiated a month-long free screening programme for children with suspected Autism Spectrum Disorder and other neuro-developmental disorders. The campaigns kicked off with an Autism Awareness event that took place at the hospital premises on April 2, and included a fun-filled day for young children and a symposium for adults where they could learn parenting styles and acceptance keys for children with disabilities. The activity aims to create awareness among parents and caretakers regarding the need for early intervention for autistic children.

The free screening, which involves of 30- to 40- minute clinical observation of each child, covers Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) therapy, physio and speech therapy, behavioural modifi¬cation and counselling. Parents and caretakers are also guided on various therapies to improve the child’s condition. 

Studies show that signs of autism in babies can emerge as early as 6 to 18 months, and timely diagnosis and intervention can significantly increase their chances of improvement. Since the brain is more adaptable at younger age, intensive therapy can encourage it to reroute itself around faulty neural pathways, giving way to a more conventional behaviour. Experts also stress that autistic children who are given therapy in early stages have better odds of joining mainstream educational institutions.  

“The line is thin, and hard to identify,” says Dr Mardy Dizon, Psychologist and Therapist at RAK Hospital, “Often, parents are unable to read symptoms of autism in their children, simply assuming that they are late starters. In other cases, they are in denial, which means it takes them a while to accept that their child may need help. Either way, we need such complimentary awareness campaigns so that even at the slightest indication, parents can bring their children for screening. And if diagnosed, the child can begin therapy at the earliest.”

Discussing the symptoms, Dr Dizon added that parents should keep a sharp eye on their child’s mental and motor development, particularly in the first two years. If the child demonstrates a repetitive behaviour when s/he is overly focused on a single object, theme or topic, or when s/he shows lack of or minimum social skills and an inability to cope with ordinary functions, it is time to see a paediatrician or a therapist. Other tell-tale signs include avoiding eye-contact, unusual manifestation of anger, aloof behaviour, limited interests and activities and consistent inability to cope with school work among others factors.  

As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, USA, guidelines, parents should opt for specific ASD screening at the age 18- and 24-months. However, children with Autistic siblings, or those born premature or with low birth-weight can be tested earlier than that. 

Dr Raza Siddiqui, CEO Arabian Healthcare Group and Executive Director of RAK Hospital, said: “Despite the fact that there are no clear statistics to quantify the prevalence of Autism in the UAE, we can safely believe that it’s high given the long list of people waiting for their turn to be treated at the seven Autism centres in Dubai alone. One last year’s news report puts the number at 600, although there must be many cases gone unregistered. At RAK Hospital, we understand the urgency of the situation, and invite parents to avail the free screening opportunity that can help add value to their child’s everyday life.”

A strong supporter of CSR activities, RAK Hospital has contributed significantly and regularly to various causes to bring happiness, relief and comfort to people in the UAE. The hospital has helped thousands of UAE residents through its complimentary screening programmes, informative talks and other goodwill gestures.