Minister for Health and Population Pradeep Poudel has decided to prepare guidelines for the care of children with autism. Stating that the incidence of autism in children is increasing in Nepal, he said that the ministry will start working to address the growing health problem.
Minister Poudel has decided to first create a guideline covering topics such as prevention, treatment, care, and support, in order to ensure effective work in health institutions on behalf of children with autism.
For this, a 10-member committee has been formed under the coordination of Dr. Deepak Prakash Mahara.
The committee will study the prevention of autism within a month and suggest topics that can be included in health sector programs. Similarly, activities related to the care, treatment and support of children with autism will be included in the guideline. The committee will also prepare a framework for collaboration with government and non-government organizations and development partners working in the field of autism, said Ministry Spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki.
According to the 2078 Nepal Census, the number of people with autism is 4,884. However, the World Health Organization estimates that about 300,000 people in Nepal have this problem.