Page 35 - Malaysian Journal of Health Promotion, Vol 4 (Supplementary 1) 2022

Malaysian Journal of Health Promotion, Vol 4 (Supplementary 1) 2022
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14 MOH-AMM Scientific Meeting 2022 in conjunction with 23 NIH Scientific Conference Abstract Book
BIG COHORT DATA FOR NCD

Professor Dr. Ammarin Thakkinstian,
Dr. Sermkiat Lolak,
Panu Looareesuwan,
Htun Teza
Mahidol University,
Bangkok
-ABSTRACT NOT AVAILABLE-
SYMPOSIUM 5: BRIDGING THE GAPS IN NCDS IN CHILDREN

STUNTED CHILDREN AND OBESITY IN MALAYSIA

Professor Muhammad Yazid bin Jalaludin
University Malaya Medical Centre

-ABSTRACT NOT AVAILABLE-

CHALLENGES OF EXTREME PREMATURE BABIES IN MALAYSIA

Datuk Dr. Mohammad Iqbal b Mohammad Sarwar
KPJ Damansara Specialist Centre

-ABSTRACT NOT AVAILABLE-

AUTISM IN CHILDREN

Associate Professor Subashini A/P Jayanath
University Malaya Medical Centre

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition. The prevalence
of ASD and the average age of diagnosis vary by region. These are dependent on many factors,
among which are gender, geography, socio-economic status, language and cultural factors,
and access to high-quality assessments. Given the ever-growing waitlists and access

limitations, it is critical that all healthcare workers be aware of and understand ASD and
similar neurodevelopmental conditions. It is crucial that healthcare workers identify early
signs of ASD as well as recognise that there are, at times, grey areas with respect to diagnostic
certainty. The reason for this is to ensure the institution of appropriate and timely
intervention while awaiting specialised diagnostic assessments. A strengths-based approach
needs to be adopted when assessing children with ASD, instead of focusing only on their
difficulties. Early intervention, regardless of whether a diagnosis has been formalised, is time-
saving. Early intervention is also important in ensuring an optimal neurodevelopmental

outcome. This is paramount as children with ASD grow up to be adults and unmet needs
throughout the early years can have long-lasting implications. In order to best support
children with ASD and their families, it must be recognised that their needs are dynamic and,

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