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. 2020 Dec;46(6):414-419.
doi: 10.1016/j.encep.2020.05.015. Epub 2020 Sep 11.

Estimating the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder in Lebanon

S Richa  1 , R Khoury  2 , J JRouhayem  2 , R Chammay  2 , F Kazour  2 , R Bou Khalil  2 , W Kheir  3 , D Choueifaty  4 , E Kouba-Hreich  4 , B Gerbaka  5 , S Adib  6
Affiliations

Estimating the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder in Lebanon

S Richa et al. Encephale. 2020 Dec.

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.

Keywords: Arab; Children; Enfants; MCHAT; Mental health; Middle-East; Moyen-Orient; Pays arabes; Santé mentale.

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