Pajhwok’s autism report applauded by doctors, social voices

KABUL (Pajhwok): Pajhwok Afghan News’s recent report on autism in children has been praised by several doctors and social media users as a valuable step toward enhancing public health awareness.

Published on June 25, the report titled “Autism in Children: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment in Afghanistan” highlights key information about the condition and its impact on families.

Healthcare professionals and the public alike have welcomed the report as an important initiative in raising awareness about autism in a country where such topics are often overlooked.

Praise from medical professionals

Dr. Mohammad Hasham Zazai, Deputy Director of Medical Affairs at Kabul University of Medical Sciences, contacted a Pajhwok reporter via WhatsApp to request the report’s link. After reading it, he said: “It was an exceptionally informative and well-written report.”

He thanked Pajhwok for producing content that contributes meaningfully to public health education.

Dr. Himatullah Sangarwal, a physician at Noor Hospital in Kabul’s Darulaman area, also expressed appreciation via WhatsApp: “May Allah reward you for addressing health-related issues and raising awareness among the people.”

He noted the report would be particularly helpful to families with children diagnosed with autism.

Akhtar Ashna, a child psychologist and education specialist, commended the report on his Facebook page, calling it vital for increasing awareness among families.

“Thanks to Pajhwok Afghan News and the respected doctors for raising awareness about autism,” he wrote.

A dental and cosmetic treatment center also shared the article on its official Facebook page, stating that the report helps improve public understanding of autism. The post emphasized the importance of educating parents—especially mothers—about children’s health conditions and called for continued public awareness campaigns.

Feedback from Social media

The report sparked encouraging feedback from social media users who highlighted its relevance and importance.

Shahrzad Siraj, a Facebook user, commented: “I thank Pajhwok Afghan News for publishing such informative reports. Besides fulfilling their journalistic mission, they help families understand diseases, prevention methods and treatment options.”

Malika Achakzai wrote: “Thanks to Pajhwok for increasing public awareness through this report. I hope families with autistic children seek medical help so that these children do not become a burden to themselves or their families in the future.”

Another user, Nasibullah Mazlumyar, also expressed gratitude, saying that such reports are instrumental in educating families and promoting early intervention.

What is Autism?

According to doctors, autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a child’s communication, social interaction, behaviour, and learning. It typically appears before the age of three and lasts throughout a person’s life.

kk/sa