Autism Awareness Day 2026: Early Screening a Crucial Step for Children to Receive the Best Care
On the commemoration of Autism Awareness Day observed on 2 April, it serves as a reminder that every life has value worth cherishing.
Director of Health Services for Vulnerable Groups, Imran Pambudi, stated that in Indonesia, estimates indicate there are around 2.4 million children with autism spectrum.
“Autism is not a condition with a single cause; genetic, neuroimmune, metabolic factors, and interactions between the brain and gut (gut-brain axis) play roles in forming vulnerability and clinical manifestations. Therefore, there is no cure for autism, but rather an approach that emphasises early detection, evidence-based interventions, and management of comorbidities,” said Imran to Media Indonesia on Sunday (5/4).
The impact of autism is not only felt by individuals but also by families and society at large. The costs of intensive therapy, special education, and loss of family productivity become a significant financial burden. Many parents must reduce working hours or quit work to accompany their children, resulting in decreased household income and increased stress.
At the national level, the loss of work potential from individuals with autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who do not receive vocational support, as well as from caregivers who exit the workforce, reduces long-term productivity. Moreover, social stigma, educational and employment exclusion, and unequal access to health services exacerbate marginalisation.
However, Imran emphasised that there are concrete strategies that can be pursued. Early detection and rapid referral are the crucial first steps, ensuring children promptly receive care from diagnostic teams. Evidence-based interventions such as intensive behavioural therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy have proven to improve developmental outcomes.
“Individualised multidisciplinary plans involving paediatricians, psychologists, therapists, and educators help to outline support pathways tailored to each child’s needs,” Imran stated.
Additionally, family support and training are vital, as parents are the primary advocates who need to be equipped with communication and behaviour management strategies. Furthermore, management of medical comorbidities such as epilepsy, sleep disorders, or mental health issues must be an integral part of the care.
Inclusive education with curriculum adaptations, teacher training, and provision of assistants supports children in developing within the school environment.
Autism Awareness Day 2026, themed Autism and Humanity – Every Life Has Value, reminds us that investment in screening, interventions, professional training, and family support networks is not only a humanitarian action but also a smart economic strategy.
“By eliminating stigma, accepting differences, and ensuring equal access to services, we pave the way for every individual with autism spectrum to live with dignity and contribute fully to society,” he concluded.