a review of the prevalence, diagnosis, treatment, and support resources for autism spectrum disorder in africa

Autism spectrum disorder (asd) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent challenges in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted and repetitive behaviors. while global awareness of asd has grown, africa remains as one of the least studied and supported regions regarding its prevalence, diagnosis, treatment, and support systems. this review synthesizes current knowledge on asd in africa, addressing key areas such as prevalence rates, diagnostic challenges, treatment approaches, and support resources. factors influencing prevalence estimates include socio-cultural beliefs, limited healthcare infrastructure, and diagnostic inconsistencies. the present review highlights the critical role of culturally adapted diagnostic tools, the integration of evidence-based practices with traditional healing, and the potential of community-based interventions to address resource gaps. recommendations emphasize the need for comprehensive national policies, capacity building in healthcare, and public education campaigns to reduce stigma. the review concludes with a call for multidisciplinary research, inclusive education policies, and scalable technological solutions to improve asd outcomes in africa. this synthesis provides a foundation for advancing asd care and inclusion, contributing to the global agenda for equitable healthcare.