They said he was stubborn - But it was autism: Breaking the silence in Ghana
In homes across Ghana, a child who avoids eye contact, doesn't speak by age three, or repeats certain actions may often be misunderstood. Some are labeled stubborn. Medical experts are increasingly urging families to understand a neurological condition called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Autism is not a curse, is not caused by bad parenting, and is not contagious.
Globally, an estimated 1 in 100 to 1 in 160 children are on the autism spectrum. A World Bank report indicates that about 380 out of every 100,000 Ghanaians are on the autism spectrum. Some smaller studies suggest that 1 in 87 children under three may show signs consistent with autism. Parents are encouraged to seek professional advice if a child does not respond to their name by age one or does not speak by age two.
Quick Summary
Across Ghana, children showing signs of autism are often misunderstood-labeled as stubborn or believed to be under spiritual attack. Medical experts are urging families to understand Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and seek early intervention-but stigma remains a challenge.
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