KABUL (Pajhwok): Doctors in Afghanistan report that a lack of awareness among families about autism often leads to delayed diagnosis in children. They stress that if symptoms such as speech delays, difficulties in social interaction, or limited eye contact are noticed, the child should be taken to a doctor immediately. What is Autism? Dr. Sayed Shabir Ahmad Sediqi, a neurologist at the French Medical Institute for Mothers and Children, explained to Pajhwok Afghan News that autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a child’s communication, social interaction, behaviour, and learning. It typically appears before the age of three and lasts throughout a person’s life. He stated: “Autism is not a disease. A child with autism is not considered ill—they simply perceive and interact with the world differently due to how their brain functions.” Causes: Genetics, nutrition or unknown? While the exact cause of autism remains unclear, Dr. Sediqi pointed to genetic factors as among the most likely contributors. These may include inherited genes, vitamin deficiencies—such as zinc and vitamin D—during pregnancy, and insufficient breastfeeding. However, he clarified that these are still theories and not yet scientifically confirmed. Dr. Mohammad Aman Khan Abdali, a specialist in mental and neurological disorders at Amiri Complex, also noted that autism is a brain disorder, but it remains uncertain whether genetic or environmental factors are responsible. He added that autism can improve with time and support but requires considerable effort and patience. Symptoms to Take Seriously Dr. Sediqi noted that autism symptoms usually emerge between the ages of one and three. In some cases, they appear later, delaying the child’s diagnosis. Common signs include speech difficulties, trouble interacting with others, and lack of eye contact. “Such children often cannot perform daily tasks on their own. For instance, if they are hungry, they may not say so but will guide their mother’s hand toward the food,” he explained. “These children often fixate on one specific toy, ignoring others, even if several are available.” Types of Autism According to Dr. Sediqi, autism manifests in three levels of severity: severe (requiring full assistance with communication, dressing and toileting), moderate (partially independent) and mild (able to perform daily activities independently). He stressed that autistic children were not ill but simply different and they may excel in areas such as mathematics or art. Treating Autism When asked whether autism is curable, Dr. Sediqi said there was no direct cure. However, speech and behavioural therapy could significantly help manage symptoms. The involvement of parents, family, and society plays a vital role. “These children are different, not less. Even those with severe symptoms can improve with the right support,” he said. “We have seen children with autism go on to become doctors, artists, and entrepreneurs. This proves they can live full lives and build families—with support from those around them.” Doctors’ Recommendations Dr. Sediqi recommended that if a child is not speaking, avoids eye contact, or shows no interest in interacting with peers by the age of three, parents should seek medical advice immediately. He added that Afghan children abroad were more likely to develop autism due to social isolation, but their condition often improves upon returning to Afghanistan and engaging with other children. He expressed concern about the lack of awareness in Afghanistan, which results in many cases going undiagnosed. “Numerous neurological disorders in children remain unidentified here. Many autistic children never receive proper diagnosis or treatment,” he said. At his hospital, he noted, two out of every 100 children examined were suspected to have autism. Dr. Abdali also advised that if a baby does not make eye contact with their parents, does not smile or cry normally within six months and shows signs of aggression by age three, they should be assessed by a doctor. He urged parents to treat their autistic children with patience and kindness. A mother’s experience Fahima Stanikzai, the mother of an autistic child, shared her experience: “I noticed my son’s behaviour when we were living temporarily in Japan. He was two years old and showed signs like spinning around, walking on tiptoes and not responding to his name.” “Based on articles I’d read, I suspected autism. But when we returned to Afghanistan, I couldn’t find any specialist centres.” She said her son was now receiving care at a speech therapy centre in Kabul.