| Bridging the gap: autism spectrum disorder in children in
the United States and worldwide: a narrative review |
Sandhya J Kadam1 
, Malika Goel2
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1Department of Pediatrics, Family HealthCare Network, Visalia, CA, USA
2Fellow Pediatric Gastroenterology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA |
Correspondence:
Sandhya J Kadam, Email: hellosandhya7@gmail.com
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Received: 26 April 2025 • Revised: 21 July 2025 • Accepted: 21 July 2025 |
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| Abstract |
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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental
condition characterized by difficulty with communication
and social interactions as well as restricted or repetitive
behaviors. Over the last few decades, the prevalence of
ASD has increased globally, with major differences in
reporting, diagnosis, and interventions between developed
and developing countries. The United States (U.S.)
has seen a sharp rise in diagnosed ASD cases, with a
current prevalence of approximately 1 in 31 children, due
to improved awareness, early screening programs, and
timely intervention. The U.S. healthcare system supports
early intervention services through policies such as the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and insurance
mandates for ASD coverage. However, countries in Latin
America, Africa, and Asia face challenges in ASD care,
including limited access, stigma, underdiagnosis, and lack
of resources. The World Health Organization Caregiver
Skills Training, a global initiative, and the involvement of
nongovernmental organizations are gradually bridging
this gap. An interprofessional approach highlighting
cross-cultural research, training providers, screening
tools, referral options, policy implementation, and community-
based care on a global scale will help reduce
disparities in ASD care among countries. Making ASD
care a global public health priority could help ensure
developmental and mental healthcare equity. This study
compares ASD care in the U.S. to that worldwide, highlighting
the importance of global collaboration for early
detection, service availability, and research. |
| Key Words:
Autism spectrum disorder, Applied behavior
analysis, Communication social interaction, Occupational
therapy, Child |
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