The number of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in Kazakhstan has increased from 7,600 to 13,900 over the past three years, reports Todayinfo.
This was announced by Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov in response to an inquiry from Majilis deputies. According to him, the annual growth averages 35%.
"The increase in their numbers is due to improved detection and early diagnosis, as well as the implementation of the M-CHAT early screening. Previously, children with ASD were not included in statistics," Olzhas Bektenov replied.
According to the head of government, the total number of children with disabilities due to mental disorders is 32,400, of whom 13,900 are children with ASD. Previously, low figures were associated with inadequate diagnosis and the fact that some children were not counted in official statistics.
"In 2025, an interdepartmental Roadmap for improving assistance to children with ASD in the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2025–2027 was approved. The roadmap includes a series of measures to enhance early detection and diagnosis of ASD," Bektenov reported.
The document also points to systemic problems: a shortage of infrastructure and specialists, as well as the limited capacity of the education system to provide a full range of medical services for children with severe disabilities.
The main treatments for ASD are non-pharmacological, involving behavioral, educational, and psychological interventions. Special screening is conducted in child development rooms at primary healthcare facilities for the early detection of autism signs.
However, the response also indicates that the problem of staff shortages and unequal access to services in the regions persists, which also affects the overall level of support for children with ASD.
