Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders in Qatar: A National Epidemiological Survey

Abstract

Objectives: To generate a first estimate ASD prevalence among school age children in Qatar, using a whole population-based approach; and to evaluate correlates of ASD in a large representative sample of cases. Methods: We surveyed the population of children age 6 to 11 (N=176,960) residing in Qatar in 2015 including Qataris and residents. First, eligible children attending medical/special needs centers and schools providing diagnostic and treatment services for children with ASD were screened. Records were abstracted and supplemented by parental interviews. Second, we performed a two-stage …