Publication: Early Behavioural Signs among Nepalese Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Date
2024
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Nepal Medical Association
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex neurodevelopmental condition. Early identification of symptoms is crucial for timely intervention, yet diagnosing very young children can be challenging due to the variability in symptom presentation and the influence of other developmental factors. This study aimed to find the prevalence of the emergence of early behavioural signs in Nepalese children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Centre for Autism in Kathmandu, Nepal, from January 2023 to June 2023. Ethical approval was obtained, and a sample of 120 children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder was included in the study. Convenience sampling method was used. Point estimate at 95% Confidence Interval was calculated.
Results: Among 120 children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, the prevalence of emergence of early behavioural signs was seen in 112 (93.33%) (88.83-97.77, 95% Confidence Interval) children.
Conclusions: This study provides insights into the emergence of early behavioural signs in Nepalese children with Autism Spectrum Disorder which align with global patterns in prevalence and severity.
Description
Authors
Manju Shrestha
Centre For Autism, Baluwatar, Kathmandu, Nepal.
Rinkal Suwal
B.P. Eye Foundation, Lokanthali, Bhaktapur, Nepal.
Niranjan Thapa
Nepalese Army Institute of Health Sciences, Sanobharyang, Kathmandu, Nepal.
Suchit Thapa Chhetri
Nepalese Army Institute of Health Sciences, Sanobharyang, Kathmandu, Nepal.
Bishal Kunwor
Nepalese Army Institute of Health Sciences, Sanobharyang, Kathmandu, Nepal.
Shiva Kumar Regmi
Nepalese Army Institute of Health Sciences, Sanobharyang, Kathmandu, Nepal.
Oshan Shrestha
Nepalese Army Institute of Health Sciences, Sanobharyang, Kathmandu, Nepal.
Bipin Mehta
Nepalese Army Institute of Health Sciences, Sanobharyang, Kathmandu, Nepal.