Autism Cases Surge in Kurdistan Region, Experts Warn of Digital Devices' Impact

Ahmed Saida, a psychology professor and specialist, underlined the complex nature of autism's increasing prevalence, emphasizing both genetic predisposition and environmental factors as key contributors.

Jan. 14, 2025

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Health authorities in the Kurdistan Region have reported a worrying increase in autism cases, with official records suggesting more than 6,000 diagnosed cases, while experts warn that social isolation and excessive use of electronic devices are contributing to the condition's prevalence.

In an interview with Kurdistan24, Naji Ali, Chairman of the High Committee for Autism in the Kurdistan Region under the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, noted that "the region has officially registered 3,600 autism cases, with an additional 2,500 cases documented in autism centers."

The rising numbers have caused concerns among healthcare professionals.

Ahmed Saida, a psychology professor and specialist, underlined the complex nature of autism's increasing prevalence, emphasizing both genetic predisposition and environmental factors as key contributors.

"While genetic factors remain paramount, parents must exercise caution during pregnancy and early childhood development stages," Saida told Kurdistan24.

He mainly emphasized the crucial importance of limiting children's exposure to electronic devices during their formative years.

The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has responded to this healthcare challenge with a comprehensive infrastructure development plan.

"We have established 59 governmental and non-governmental centers across the region, with 43 new facilities opened during the ninth cabinet alone," Ali stated.

Notable developments in autism care infrastructure include:

  • May 26, 2021: The inauguration of the Emirati Center for Autism in Erbil, attended by UAE Red Crescent Secretary-General  Mohammed Ateeq al-Falahi and UAE Consul General Ahmed Ibrahim al-Dhaheri.
  • Aug. 1, 2022: The opening of the first specialized autism center in Koya township.
  • Prime Minister Masrour Barzani's June 2, 2022 directive ensured free autism screening and treatment in all government hospitals.
  • Jan. 31, 2022: Allocation of 114,835,000 dinars for renovating the Hajiawa township nursery building for conversion into an autism center.
  • Feb. 4, 2022: The KRG Ministry of Transport and Communications issued a decision that permits travelers who have autism to use the “business class” queues in the Kurdistan Region’s airports.
  • Sept. 15, 2022: The inauguration of a specialized autism treatment center funded by the Sheikh Ali Sheikh Izzeddin family in Halabja.

“Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain,” according to the US Centers for the Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The condition affects each person who has it differently. For example, some might possess advanced conversation skills while others cannot even speak.

ASD is usually diagnosed as early as three years of age and will be chronic, but symptoms might improve with necessary interventions. Someone with the condition might need a lot of care throughout their life.

Healthcare experts underline the significance of early intervention and warn that social isolation among adults over 18 can also lead to autism-like behavioral patterns, highlighting the need for comprehensive social integration strategies across all age groups.

The situation underscores the growing challenges facing the Kurdistan Region's healthcare system and the urgent need for increased awareness about autism spectrum disorders among the general population.