WHO South-East Asia countries pledge inclusive approaches for autism Adopt Thimphu Declaration at the conclusion of international conference

Apr 21, 2017, at 10:42 pm

Thimphu, Bhutan, Apr 21 (IBNS): Thirteen year old Bhuma (name changed) spends his day at home. He does not go to school, or play with children in his neighborhood to avoid being laughed at. That's been his life ever since he was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder when he was about four years old. Most children with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders in low- and -middle income settings lead a life similar to that of Bhuma, marred by stigma, social isolation and lack of support services. And their numbers are increasing.