DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has emphasised the urgent need for women to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of giving birth to children with autism, as the number of cases continues to rise.
Statistics show that over 20,000 children are born with autism in the country annually, yet only 1,416 receive specialised services.
Speaking in Dar es Salaam, Deputy Minister for Health Dr Godwin Mollel highlighted key preventive measures, including maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and undergoing health checkups before and during pregnancy.
Dr Mollel made the calls during the commemoration of World Autism Day, warning that the increasing number of children with autism underscores the growing need for specialised support.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to raising awareness on the problem through strengthening health and education services.
This includes expanding access to special schools, dedicated service areas, and qualified professionals such as occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech therapists, and psychologists.
Additionally, he noted that the government has invested in infrastructure and technology to facilitate the early identification and diagnosis of autism.
Dr Mollel urged the community to stop hiding children with autism and instead seek guidance from health professionals on how to support them in becoming independent.
“I advise parents and caregivers to take their children to health facilities as soon as they notice any health challenges, as individuals with autism may also experience other medical conditions,” he said.
Meanwhile, Assistant Director of Non-Communicable Diseases at the Ministry of Health, Dr Omary Ubuguyu, highlighted that some individuals with autism possess exceptional talents.
“There is great potential to provide proper care for children with autism, enabling them to thrive— sometimes even more than children without autism,” he noted.
Dr Ubuguyu explained that children with autism often have an intense ability to focus on a single task, sometimes surpassing their neurotypical peers. However, they may struggle with task-switching and tend to repeat the same actions frequently.
He also pointed out several factors that may contribute to autism, including advanced paternal age and the consumption of alcohol and tobacco during pregnancy.
“Parental genetics can play a role in autism and other mental health conditions. In particular, having children at an older age— especially for men—as well as alcohol and tobacco use during pregnancy, are significant risk factors,” he stressed.
The United Nations General Assembly designated April 2 as World Autism Day to raise awareness and promote efforts to improve the quality of life for individuals with autism, ensuring they can lead full and meaningful lives as part of society.
