Estimating the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder in Lebanon.

Estimating the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder in Lebanon. Encephale. 2020 Sep 11;: Authors: Richa S, Khoury R, JRouhayem J, Chammay R, Kazour F, Bou Khalil R, Kheir W, Choueifaty D, Kouba-Hreich E, Gerbaka B, Adib S Abstract This cross-sectional survey examines the prevalence rate of Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in 818 children (16-48 months) across all Lebanese regions. Screening was done using the revised form of the Modified-Checklist for Autism in Toddlers. Based on the total score of items failed, children were classified into 3 categories of ASD risk (low, moderate and high). Phone calls follow-up interviews and clinical assessments for diagnosis ascertainment were conducted. Given the caregivers' reluctance to participate, the prevalence rate was estimated between 49 and 513 per 10,000 with a male predominance. Our prevalence estimation, even under restrictive assumptions, is higher than elsewhere in the Arab region. Anti- stigma interventions adapted to the socio-cultural context are needed prior to future research in the field. PMID: 32928536 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: L Encephale - Category: Psychiatry Tags: Encephale Source Type: research