More than 200 cases of virtual autism in children as of March this year

Thinley Namgay

The National Disability Conference in Thimphu yesterday highlighted a growing concern over the increasing number of children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and a lack of understanding of the condition.

While there is no definitive data on the prevalence of ASD in Bhutan, research suggests that the number of cases is on the rise.

A researcher and a teacher at Kamji Central School in Chukha, Dawa Drukpa, found that 86 children with ASD are currently supported by Ability Bhutan Society, Changangkha School, Yangchen Gatshel School, and Hejo ECCD in Thimphu, Damphu School in Tsirang, and Tendruk School in Samtse.

Autism, also referred to as ASD, is a neuro developmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others.

While the exact causes remain unknown, genetic factors and environmental factors, such as exposure to pesticides, lead, mercury, and other harmful metals are believed to play a role.

ASD, which is more common in boys than girls, typically occurs before the age of three.

According to the 2023 World Health Organisation report, one in 100 people worldwide has autism. In 1975, this figure was one in 5,000.

Dawa Drukpa  said that autism is increasingly common in Bhutan, yet understanding of the disorder remains limited among educators, parents, and policymakers.

“Bhutanese teachers have limited knowledge of inclusive strategies to teach children with ASD in mainstream classes,” he added.

Individuals with ASD often display various unusual behaviours, such as hand-flapping, toe-walking, body rocking, holding body parts in unusual positions, or engaging in self-injurious actions like biting their arms or hitting their heads. Moreover, children with ASD often avoid eye contact.

One emerging concern is the potential impact of excessive screen time on children’s development. A new phenomenon, dubbed “virtual autism” has been observed in children who exhibit autism-like symptoms after prolonged exposure to screens.

Children with virtual autism exhibit symptoms such as social withdrawal, communication issues, physical inactivity, attention problems, and developmental delays.

As of March this year, the National Referral Hospital recorded 200 such cases.

To address this issue, it is recommended to limit smartphone usage for children under five and to include disability-related topics in the school curriculum.

However, as virtual autism is not a formally recognised medical condition, there is a risk of misdiagnosis, which could deprive children with genuine ASD of necessary support.

The experts and advocates at the conference called for early diagnosis and intervention, specialised training for educators, along with trained speech therapists, behavioral therapists, and other specialists.

The participants also said that children with ASD and their caregivers should have have access to evidence-based therapies and community support.

While there is no cure for ASD, having the necessary facilities and support systems in place can maximise a child’s ability to function and thrive.