From Rural to Urban: Navigating Autism Support Across Different African Communities.
Dr. Adeola Folorunso
Doctor of Humanities & Leadership , RN , BScN, MHA, MPH-c, ASDCS , CHE. (Equitable Global Health Advocate / Health Policy/ Health Educator / Public Speaker/ Program Planner & Moderator).
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has become an increasing focus of public health discourse across the globe, and Africa is no exception. The challenges families face in managing autism in Africa differ vastly depending on whether they live in rural or urban settings.
In urban centers, children with autism have a relatively better chance of being diagnosed early, access resources and receive appropriate care. Access to these resources allows children with autism to thrive, provided they can afford the services. Public and private partnerships have played a role in increasing autism awareness and providing services in urban areas.
However, the above cannot be said for children living in underserved communities. Rural areas in Africa are far behind in autism awareness and services. The lack of resources and trained professionals in these areas often means that children with autism go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.
The divide between urban and rural autism care in Africa is glaring, but it is not insurmountable if proper measures are in place to promptly address the aforementioned concerns.
Full article available : https://matermental.com/from-rural-to-urban-navigating-autism-support-across-different-african-communities/
Maybe this helps? https://medium.com/@lizlucy1958/autism-my-view-14a43b69537a
Story Psychologist | I Help You Decode Your Untold Stories & Turn Your Hidden Pain to Purpose??
1 个月Thanks for sharing this beautiful piece Dr. Adeola Folorunso
Empowering Communication | Speech & Language Therapist | Championing AAC, Autism Support, and Developmental Progress | Advocate for Inclusive Education
1 个月Thank you Dr. Adeola Folorunso for this eye opening research. As professionals we need to advocate for autism and offer support especially to the rural areas in Africa.
Interim Consultant | People and Change, Community & Transformation Project
1 个月Well done! Keep it coming darling! ????! Your boldness and dedication is inspiring Autism is increasingly prevalent in Africa, yet the continent faces significant barriers to diagnosis and treatment. Challenges such as a shortage of specialized healthcare professionals, limited resources and lack of awareness among healthcare providers, and cultural stigma surrounding mental health and developmental disorders have left many families without the support they need! But partnership and sponsorship by governments to help bring about lasting change is desperately needed!!!!
Doctor of Humanities & Leadership , RN , BScN, MHA, MPH-c, ASDCS , CHE. (Equitable Global Health Advocate / Health Policy/ Health Educator / Public Speaker/ Program Planner & Moderator).
1 个月Matermental