Issue: 2026, Vol. 31, No. 1
AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS IN CHILDREN. MANAGEMENT THROUGH AWARENESS OF THE DISTRICT PEDIATRICIAN
- Keywords
- Autism spectrum disorders, young children, pediatricians, early intervention
- Abstarct
- The aim of this study is to assess the awareness of pediatricians regarding the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment approaches for autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in children. Material and Methods. An online survey was conducted among 100 district pediatricians on their knowledge and practices regarding ASD in children, such as etiology, diagnostic criteria, and treatment options. Results and Discussion. The survey revealed that all doctors were aware of autism spectrum disorders, but their responses were fairly uniform. They defined it as a developmental disorder. However, only a quarter of the specialists were aware of the possibility of diagnosing these disorders at the age of one or two years, and screening tools. Additionally, a third of doctors were reluctant to admit the possibility of regression in a young child’s speech and social skills. Only a quarter acknowledged the potential of using family education and special pedagogy to address autism spectrum disorders. These findings indicate a lack of knowledge regarding routings and early intervention from the perspective of partial medicine. Conclusion. A lack of awareness among pediatricians regarding the first manifestations of autism spectrum disorders at an early age and the management of children with neurodevelopmental conditions has been identified, which highlights the need for including these topics in pediatric advanced training programs.
Quid est Veritas_1_ 2026-36-41