RAK Hospital offers free Autism screening programme

Ras Al Khaimah - Studies have shown that autism in babies can emerge as early as six to 18 months, and that timely diagnosis and intervention can significantly increase their chances of improvement.

RAK Hospital has inaugurated a free, month-long screening programme for children with suspected Autism Spectrum Disorder and other neuro-developmental disorders.
The campaign began with an event on April 2 - World Autism Awareness Day - which included a symposium for adults in which they could learn parenting styles and "acceptance keys" for children with disabilities. The day was designed to create awareness among parents and caretakers regarding the need for early intervention for autistic children.
The free screening - which involves 30 to 40 minutes of clinical observation of each child - covers Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) therapy, physio and speech therapy, behavioural modification and counselling. Parents and caretakers are also guides on various therapies that have been show to improve the child's condition.
Studies have shown that autism in babies can emerge as early as six to 18 months, and that timely diagnosis and intervention can significantly increase their chances of improvement. Since the brain is more adaptable at a younger age, intensive therapy can encourage it to reroute itself around faulty neural pathways, allowing for more conventional behaviour. Experts also note that autistic children who enter therapy early on have significantly 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."
Dr Dizon also 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 he or she is overly focused on a single object, theme or topic, or shows lack of or minimum social skills and inability to cope with ordinary functions, it is time to see a paediatrician or a therapist. Other key indicators 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 U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention 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."
reporters@khaleejtimes.com

• Ras Al Khaimah