Deteksi Dini Autism Spectrum Disorder pada Balita di Kota Probolinggo Autism Spectrum Disorder Early Detection among Children Under Five in Probolinggo City

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that manifests in early childhood, characterized by difficulties in communication, social interaction, and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior and interests. Symptoms of ASD can be identified as early as 6 to 18 months of age, with initial signs often involving impairments in cognitive and social functioning. Awareness of early symptoms, early detection, and timely intervention significantly influence developmental outcomes. This activity aimed to provide information regarding the early signs of ASD, screening methods, and diagnostic assessment using DSM-5 criteria, particularly for the community in Probolinggo. The methods included disseminating information through online media and directing parents to complete the M-CHAT screening questionnaire. M-CHAT results were then used as the basis for comprehensive interviews and clinical evaluations conducted according to DSM-5 criteria. A total of 25 participants completed the M-CHAT, and 16 attended the follow-up clinical assessments. The findings indicated that speech delay was the most common concern among parents related to the potential presence of ASD in their children. Among the children screened, 10 (50.5%) were categorized as low risk, 5 (31.24%) as medium risk, and 1 (6.25%) as high risk. Following thorough assessments and DSM-5-based evaluations, 2 children (12.5%) were diagnosed with atypical ASD, 12 children (75%) with speech delay, and 2 children (12.5%) with other conditions. These results highlight that not all speech delays are indicative of ASD; however, parental awareness regarding early signs of ASD was adequate to support screening and further evaluation.