Perceptions of Autism Spectrum Disorder among People in a Remote Area of Bangladesh

Authors

  • Nasrin Sultana Associate Professor of Community Medicine, NIPSOM, Mohakhali, Dhaka
  • Md Rosaidul Mawla M.Sc Engineering, PhD Researcher, Bangladesh University of Professionals, Mirpur Cantonment, Dhaka
  • Nishat Farhana Khan Associate Professor of Community Medicine, MARKS Medical College, Dhaka
  • Mohammad Rashidul Alam Associate Professor, Health Education Department, NIPSOM, Mohakhali, Dhaka
  • Md Ziaul Karim Associate Professor of Skin and VD, Patuakhali Medical College, Patuakhali
  • Nadia Haque Associate Professor of Community Medicine, Holy Family Red Crescent Medical College, Dhaka

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3329/jafmc.v18i2.63999

Keywords:

Autism, Neurodevelopment disorders, Genetic, Environmental factors

Abstract

Introduction: Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder which are manifested within two years of life. It exhibits difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, as well as repetitive or constrained interests and actions. Autism has already posed significant burden in health sector in Bangladesh. That’s why it is high time to address autism. 

Objectives: To assess the factors affecting children with ASD and perception of rural people about it.

Methods: This cross sectional study was carried out from 01 January to 31 December, 2021 among 55 people of different unions of Bauphal Upazila of Patuakhali district. 

Results: Majority of the autistic children are male (61.82%). In maximum cases, parents and family members were usually the first persons to identify (60%) the autistic symptoms. A good percentage (21.82%) respondents were ignorant about the cause of autism. Most (38.18%) of the children with autism were treated at government hospital. Maximum therapy received by the children is speech therapy (41.82%) and there is partial improvement (54.55%) of autism by applying therapy.

Conclusion: This study revealed that most of the parents of autistic child were unaware about its contributory factors and treatment. Even there is scarcity of trained or specialist health professionals. There are also false belief about autism that inhibit people to take proper treatment.

JAFMC Bangladesh. Vol 18, No 2 (December) 2022: 66-71

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Published

2023-08-21

How to Cite

Sultana, N. ., Mawla, M. R. ., Khan, N. F. ., Alam, M. R. ., Karim, M. Z. ., & Haque, N. . (2023). Perceptions of Autism Spectrum Disorder among People in a Remote Area of Bangladesh. Journal of Armed Forces Medical College, Bangladesh, 18(2), 66–71. https://doi.org/10.3329/jafmc.v18i2.63999

Issue

Vol. 18 No. 2 (2022)

Section

Original Papers

License

Submission of a manuscript for publication implies the transfer of the copyright from the author to the publisher upon acceptance. Accepted manuscripts become the permanent property of the Journal of Armed Forces Medical College and may not be reproduced by any means in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.