Kyrgyzstan registers 380 children with autism, but actual number likely higher

Kyrgyzstan officially registers 380 children with autism, but health officials acknowledge this figure likely underestimates the true prevalence. Deputy Health Minister Bakytbek Kadyraliev stated that while the number of registered cases remains low, there is a concerning "negative dynamic" regarding autism in the country.

Kadyraliev also reported that 563 children have Down syndrome and 3,227 have cerebral palsy (CP). A significant hurdle remains the insufficient early detection of autism. Furthermore, the nation experiences a shortage of child psychiatrists, psychologists, and rehabilitation specialists, with limited access to these services in regional areas.

To address these issues, the Ministry of Health plans to finalize a national registry for children with autism, Down syndrome, and CP. The ministry also aims to expand the network of early intervention centers across the country, seeking to improve diagnosis and support for affected children and their families.

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Today, 380 children are registered. This is, of course, not accurate information. We believe the number of such children is much larger.