Chitwan: The Bagmati Province of Nepal has identified 1,253 individuals grappling with autism, revealing a significant prevalence of the condition. Kathmandu has the highest count with 495 cases, followed by Chitwan (113), Lalitpur (83), Bhaktapur (78), and Makawanpur (77). This data was shared during an autism workshop organized by the Bagmati Province Health Ministry.

The overall count of individuals affected by autism in Nepal stands at 4,886, according to expert Dr. Shakar Khanal from the Health Ministry. He highlighted that, globally, it is estimated that around 300,000 people, or 1 in 100 individuals, face this challenge. Furthermore, the ratio of men to women affected is four to one.

Breaking down the prevalence based on geographical regions, Khanal revealed that 328 individuals in mountainous areas, 2,229 in hilly regions, and 2,329 in the Terai are impacted. The urban areas exhibit a higher incidence, with 3,158 cases compared to 1,728 in rural settings.

Surendra Bajracharya from the Autism Care Nepal Society emphasized that autism is not a disease but a problem. He underscored that while autism is often identified in other countries by the age of six months, in Nepal, it is typically recognized only after 18 months. Bajracharya added that approximately 0.8% of the population with disabilities in Nepal also grapple with autism.

Although there is no cure for autism, various forms of therapy and rehabilitation measures can contribute to improvement. Bagmati Province Health Secretary Deepak Tiwari highlighted the provincial government's efforts to address the challenges associated with autism. He expressed optimism that such programs would aid future initiatives and data collection.

The workshop witnessed participation from health institutions within the province and various organizations actively engaged in addressing autism-related issues.