18th Oct 2009: Dubai, UAE – 18 Oct. 09 – Autism is the most prevalent childhood developmental disorder, according to a new study published in Pediatrics (the American Academy of Pediatrics' official journal on October 5, 2009) there has been a significant increase in Autism cases in comparison to previous years. The study shows that 1 in every 91 children and 1 in 58 boys has Autism. The previous Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) prevalence estimate reported by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in 2007 was approximately 1 in 150 and 1 in 94 boys.

“These new numbers should serve as a renewed call to action to take on what is clearly a major public health crisis not only in this country, but around the world,” said Bob Wright, co-founder of Autism Speaks.

Prior to the release of the study findings, US President Barack Obama announced a plan to provide funding of $92 million for Autism research.

Mr. Mohammed Al Emadi, Board Member and Director General of Dubai Autism Center (DAC) said: “the new findings demand a unified action from both the public and private sectors to limit the spread of Autism; along with finding solutions toward reducing the difficulties faced by the children, their families and the society,”

“The study underlines the mysteriousness and gravity of this disorder as well as the need to take vital actions to provide adequate support to parents and care givers of individuals with Autism. In my opinion, it is also a wake-up call to support a national health survey to identify the incidence of Autism in the UAE, establish policies and procedures to deal and treat Autism as well as benefit from international expertise,” he added.

Al Emadi also accentuated the importance of consistent governmental support to Autism centers in the country, “this support will enable medical and educational centers to provide the required services, ensure the availability of the best medical and educational intervention programs, spread awareness and conduct research that will unveil the mystery of Autism.”