Determinants of Autism Spectrum Disorder among Children at Autism Centres in Khartoum State- Sudan

Abstract

Autism is a neurological disorder characterized by qualitative impairments in social interaction, qualitative impairments in communication, and restricted repetitive, stereotyped patterns of behaviour, interests, and activities. Autistic Spectrum Disorders are relatively common without known aetiology can be found in 80-90% of cases. The present study aimed to identify determinants of autism spectrum disorder among children. This study adoptsadescriptive design. The population of the study comprised allautistic patients inautism centresinKhartoum Statewhich includes12 centres: 10centres refusedto participate in this study, and 2 centresagreed to participate. Thirteen (30) Mothers of autistic children were enrolled in the study after obtaining their verbal approval, and the relevant data were collected by a structured interview questionnaire. The results of the study revealed that all enrolled mothers (100%) of autistic children were on regular antenatal visitsduring pregnancy, and that most mothers (60%) of autistic children did not suffer from disease during pregnancy. Moreover, the study found out thatmaleshad a higher prevalence (83%) rate of autism than females (17%). A vast majority (93%) of autistic children received allvaccinationdoses. The results also showed that most of the study sample (60%) had positive family history of mental disability. On the basis of the results, the researcher recommended: launching a creative national screening program (CHAT) for pre-schoolers; raisingthe awareness of caregivers/mothersand families byidentifying the early symptoms and signs of autism; and establishing governmental autism centreswhich provide full medical care –diagnosis, assessment and management.