Thailand, like many countries worldwide, is witnessing increased public concern as reported cases of autism rise steeply each year. However, recent research and leading international experts contend that this apparent surge in autism diagnoses may not reflect a true rise in the prevalence of autism itself, but rather the product of social, medical, and diagnostic transformations over recent decades (BBC).
The significance of understanding these trends cannot be understated for Thai parents, educators, and healthcare professionals. Against a backdrop of growing public discussion and sometimes anxiety over neurodevelopmental disorders, clear and accurate information about autism spectrum disorder (ASD)—its causes, diagnosis, and support—remains critical for societal awareness, policy planning, and resource allocation.
Historically, autism was a rarely used diagnosis. As recently as 1980, ASD was absent from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), the professional guidebook for clinicians globally. Before the introduction of recognized diagnostic criteria, children in Thailand and elsewhere who presented with autistic features were often labeled with other conditions, or simply overlooked. Since the DSM’s inclusion of autism in the 1980s, its diagnostic boundaries have broadened. Major expansions occurred in 2013 with the DSM-5’s inclusion of Asperger’s syndrome and related subcategories under the autism spectrum. This redefinition makes it possible to diagnose autism in those with less apparent, “milder” symptoms, and has vastly increased the number of reported cases (BBC).
Data from countries with long-standing autism tracking systems, such as the United States, reveal that prevalence rates have shot up from approximately 1-in-150 children in 2000 to around 1-in-31 by 2022—a nearly five-fold increase. Similar rises are seen in Australia, Taiwan, and other nations. However, researchers emphasize that these expands largely reflect increased awareness, better and earlier screening, and improvements in diagnostic tools. Autism spectrum disorder is estimated to affect 1%–3% of children in countries where robust data exists. Still, many low- and middle-income nations, including Thailand, lack systematic data collection, fueling uncertainty and anxiety.
Diagnostic disparities persist, both between and within countries—the likelihood of obtaining a diagnosis may depend on a child’s city, socioeconomic status, or family background. In the US, for example, rates have varied from under 1% of eight-year-olds in Texas to more than 5% in California, due to variability in healthcare access, community awareness, and education systems.
A growing body of research now reveals that the principal causes of autism are overwhelmingly genetic. A major multinational study led by the Karolinska Institute in Sweden, covering five high-income countries, concluded that the heritability of ASD is around 80%. In other words, most of the differences in autism risk are explained by genetic factors and family history rather than changes in the environment (BBC). The findings highlight the familial nature of autism; children with a full sibling on the spectrum have a tenfold increased risk of also being diagnosed with ASD.
Despite these strong genetic associations, the quest for a singular “autism gene” remains elusive. Over 100 genes have been linked to ASD, yet most are not unique to autism and often overlap with other neurodevelopmental conditions. Environmental factors such as advanced parental age, preterm birth, parental mental or physical health, and socioeconomic stressors have also been investigated. While some minor associations exist, experts emphasize that none are at a level that would account for recent sharp rises in diagnosis rates.
One widely debunked myth—particularly relevant amidst Thailand’s ongoing vaccine hesitancy debates—is the alleged association between childhood vaccination and autism. Large-scale scientific studies, including those reviewed in The Lancet and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, have found no credible evidence of any link between vaccination and ASD. Health authorities in Thailand consistently reinforce this message to the public, seeking to counter misinformation that can fuel preventable disease outbreaks, as seen with measles and mumps in the region.
Leading autism advocates explain that improved public and professional awareness has played a pivotal role in increased diagnosis. Where once children—particularly those from disadvantaged, minority, or rural backgrounds—slipped through the cracks, today’s parents and teachers are more empowered with information. Social media, education campaigns, and government outreach have helped drive earlier screening, even if much work remains to be done to reach equitable access across communities. For example, the principal investigator at the Korea Institute for Children’s Social Development described how social media has encouraged parents to seek earlier and more frequent autism screening (BBC).
Thailand’s unique culture and social fabric contribute both challenges and opportunities in responding to autism. Traditional Thai family structures, which often include extended family support, can provide valuable networks for children with ASD. However, stigma persists, sometimes leading families to delay or avoid formal evaluation and care. The gradual softening of autistic stigma worldwide is echoed in parts of Thai society, aided by high-profile advocacy campaigns and the work of local non-governmental organizations.
Access to diagnosis and government support remains a significant issue. Some Thai families pursue an autism diagnosis in hopes of securing educational accommodations, therapeutic interventions, or financial benefits for their child. This benefit-driven demand can reinforce higher diagnosis rates while spotlighting persistent gaps in support services. According to representatives from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, the so-called “autism crisis” is not about disorder rates, but rather the chronic under-provision of tailored care, developmental therapies, and lifelong support for autistic individuals and their families (BBC).
Historically, autism misconceptions flourished. The notorious “refrigerator mother” theory, which blamed cold parenting for autism, was discredited decades ago. Still, the thirst for simple explanations drives the spread of outdated beliefs, as some families—responding to the shock of a diagnosis—look for something to blame. This vacuum unfortunately creates opportunities for harmful misinformation to take root. “A lot of people are looking for a simple explanation, especially when autism is stigmatised, and they want not only an explanation but something to blame,” notes the director of advocacy at the Autistic Self Advocacy Network.
Increasingly, experts caution against alarmist interpretations of rising ASD diagnoses. Instead, calls are growing for more holistic support systems, inclusive education, and policies that focus on harnessing the diverse talents of autistic individuals rather than “curing” or “preventing” the condition. In Thailand, the Ministry of Public Health, Ministry of Education, and disability advocacy groups stress the importance of pooled resources, professional training, and community inclusion to help autistic children and their families thrive.
Looking ahead, public health leaders expect that more sensitive screening tools and ongoing societal destigmatisation will continue to reveal previously “hidden” cases of autism. Enhanced data collection, particularly in provincial Thailand and among lower-income and minority communities, will be key to understanding the real scale of autism and the needs of those affected. In-depth longitudinal research and collaboration with international networks can help Thailand keep pace with the latest science.
For Thai families navigating an autism diagnosis, the most actionable steps are to seek credible information from sources such as the World Health Organization, the Thai Department of Mental Health, and local advocacy groups. Prompt screening, intervention, and access to inclusive education remain the best tools for improving long-term quality of life. Above all, compassion, understanding, and community support are vital.
Rising autism diagnoses should not be reason for panic, but rather a catalyst for building a more inclusive and informed society—one in which every child can reach their full potential, irrespective of neurological differences.
Sources: BBC, The Lancet, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention