World Autism Awareness Day. This April 2nd, Andalusia joins the international commemoration with a clear roadmap: promoting early detection as an essential tool to improve the quality of life of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families. In this context, The Andalusian Government has made early diagnosis of autism an absolute priority within the First Comprehensive Plan for Early Intervention in Andalusia 2025-2029..
To mark the World Autism Awareness Day, the Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs has announced a series of measures that aim to Increase the detection of ASD cases in children under three years of age by 25%, a crucial step toward more effective and personalized intervention. This line of action is part of the new Early Intervention Plan, which incorporates specialized training, educational materials, and awareness campaigns aimed at families and professionals.
Early detection: a commitment that transforms lives
“Early detection of autism is one of the most powerful tools we have to promote the development and social inclusion of those living with this condition.”, they have pointed out from the Ministry of Health and ConsumptionFor this reason, Juanma Moreno's government has structured this first Andalusian plan around the systematic detection of early warning signs.
Among the actions contemplated are:
-
Specialized training for healthcare and education professionals involved in child care.
-
Creation of educational materials and information campaigns on early signs of ASD.
-
Raising awareness among families so that they can identify as soon as possible behaviors that require evaluation.
According to experts, the earlier ASD is identified, the greater the chances of effective intervention and improved development for the child.
Data that supports the commitment
During 2024, Early Childhood Care Centers (CAIT) served 34.753 children in Andalusia., of which 6.713 were diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, representing 19,3%. This figure represents a significant increase compared to 2022, when the percentage stood at 15,5%.
60% of children with ASD referred to CAIT are under three years old., which reflects that the Current strategies are already bearing fruit. In addition, an increase in detection is observed in girls, who are traditionally less diagnosed due to clinical differences in the manifestation of the disorder. In 2024, the percentage of girls diagnosed reached 24,77%, compared to 22,34% in 2022.
New protocol adapted to all life stages
In parallel to the Early Care Plan, the Andalusian Government is working on the development of a new comprehensive protocol for people with ASD, which will replace the current Integrated Care Process and which will cover all stages of life, from early childhood to adulthood.
This protocol, developed in collaboration with associations such as Autism Seville and the Andalusian Autism Federation, includes representatives from Primary Care, Education, Social Services, and Mental Health. The goal is to ensure transversal care based on scientific evidence, adapted to the specific needs of each age group.
World Autism Awareness Day: A Growing Reality
El World Autism Awareness Day It is also an opportunity to remember that ASD is not a minority condition. According to European estimates, About 1% of the population is on the autism spectrum, although in countries like the United States the prevalence is even higher: the Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 1 in 36 children has this condition.
In Spain, the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training has observed a sustained increase in the number of students with ASD in classrooms, which requires a rethinking of educational and social strategies from an inclusive perspective.
A more conscious society is a more just society
With every advance in detection, with every improved protocol, with every trained professional, Andalusia is taking decisive steps toward a society that understands, supports, and integrates people with autism.. The World Autism Awareness Day It is a collective reminder of the importance of acting from childhood, of working in networks, and of placing the individual at the center of public policies.
World Autism Awareness Day: Autism can't be cured, but a lack of understanding can.
With this premise, the Andalusian Government continues to promote policies that promote Effective early intervention, adapted education and accessible healthcare for all people with ASD.
