Approximately 1,200 individuals are registered with autism and related disorders in the Maldives, according to statistics from the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA).

Dr Aiminath Fazna, Consultant Sub-Specialist in Developmental Paediatrics at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), shared the figures during a panel discussion, held by state media, aimed at raising awareness about autism. She noted that no specific research has been conducted on the prevalence of autism in the Maldives, but the available statistics provide an estimate of affected individuals.

The registered cases include children as young as 18 months. Autism symptoms typically emerge in early childhood, and if parents are attentive, noticeable behaviours can appear as early as one year of age, Dr Fazna explained.

Autism Awareness Day is observed globally on April 2 each year. The United Nations General Assembly established the day in 2007 to highlight autism as a growing health concern and promote awareness.