Early Identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Current Challenges and Future Global Directions

Abstract

There has been extensive research on the early identification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Given that early detection is vital for the delivery of early intervention, which can positively impact children’s developmental outcomes, it is unfortunate that many children around the world continue to be diagnosed much later than is possible. This may be partly due to discrepancy in the development and availability of culturally specific screening and developmental surveillance tools both between and within countries. The purpose of this article is to review the current status, and recommend future directions, for the early identification of ASD worldwide, by (a) briefly summarising the core early markers of ASD identified in previous reviews; (b) highlighting the current challenges for screening and surveillance of ASD; (c) exploring future directions focusing on increasing awareness of ASD, and the development and adaptation of early identification tools in different settings and countries around the globe. • Global imbalance in the knowledge of ASD based on geography, culture and socioeconomic status. • Developing culturally appropriate and psychometrically robust early identification tools for ASD still remains a challenge. • Global collaborative approach for tool development, adaptation, and knowledge dissemination.