Online Reporter
Dr Farzana Naeem
Correspondent
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterised by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviours.
In recent years, the prevalence of autism has gained attention globally, including in Zimbabwe.
Understanding the factors influencing autism in Zimbabwe, particularly lifestyle, diet, and the mode of delivery (C-section), is crucial for developing effective intervention strategies and raising awareness.
Prevalence of autism in Zimbabwe
The exact prevalence of autism in Zimbabwe remains uncertain due to limited research and diagnostic resources. However, increasing awareness and advocacy efforts have highlighted the need for better identification and support systems for individuals with autism.
Early intervention is critical and understanding factors that may contribute to the development of autism can assist in this pursuit.
Lifestyle factors
Lifestyle plays a significant role in the overall development of children, influencing both physical and mental health.
Various lifestyle factors may contribute to the risk of autism:
Stress and environment
High levels of stress within families, often due to socio-economic challenges, can impact child development. Stressful environments may lead to increased cortisol levels in pregnant mothers, potentially affecting foetal brain development.
Access to Healthcare
Limited access to healthcare services, particularly in marginalised areas, can hinder early diagnosis and intervention for autism. Families may not seek help due to stigma or lack of awareness, resulting in delayed support for affected children.
Social support
The presence of a supportive community can mitigate stress and enhance child development. In some Zimbabwean communities, traditional beliefs may stigmatise autism, leading to social isolation for affected families.
Dietary influences
Diet is a crucial component of child development and can influence various health outcomes, including neurodevelopmental disorders like autism. In most countries, Zimbabwe included, dietary habits are often shaped by cultural practices and economic factors:
1. Nutritional deficiencies
Diets lacking essential nutrients, particularly during pregnancy and early childhood, can negatively impact brain development. Deficiencies in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals have been linked to cognitive development issues.
2. Food security
Economic instability can lead to food insecurity, affecting the quality of diets. Families facing economic challenges may not have access to diverse and nutritious foods, which are vital for healthy development.
3. Cultural practices
Traditional beliefs about food and health can influence dietary choices. Some families may adhere to dietary restrictions that limit the intake of beneficial foods, inadvertently impacting neurodevelopment.
C-Section delivery
The mode of delivery can also play a role in the development of autism. Research indicates that children born via Caesarean section (C-section) may have an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood:
1.Microbiome development
The mode of delivery influences the establishment of a child’s gut microbiome. C-section births may result in a different microbiome composition compared to normal births, which can impact immune function and neurodevelopment.
2. Stress response
C-section deliveries can be associated with higher levels of stress for the new-born, which may affect brain development. Understanding the implications of delivery methods is crucial for prenatal care strategies.
3. Healthcare access:
In Zimbabwe, the rising rates of C-section deliveries may also reflect access to better healthcare facilities. While C-sections can be lifesaving, their implications for neurodevelopment warrant careful consideration.
Traditional beliefs and autism
Traditional beliefs and cultural practices can significantly impact the acceptance and understanding of autism. Some key examples include:
1. Stigmatisation of disabilities
Many communities may view autism as a result of spiritual or supernatural causes, such as witchcraft or ancestral displeasure.
This can lead to stigmatisation, where families may hide children with autism due to fear of discrimination or negative perceptions.
2. Beliefs in curses or punishment
Some traditional beliefs suggest that disabilities are a form of punishment for wrongdoing, or a curse placed on the family. This can create a sense of shame and lead families to avoid seeking help or support for their children.
3. Misunderstanding of autism symptoms
Symptoms of autism, such as social withdrawal or unusual behaviours, may be misinterpreted through a cultural lens. Community members may see these behaviours as signs of bad upbringing or moral failure rather than recognising them as symptoms of a developmental disorder.
4. Role of elders and traditional healers
In many communities, elders and traditional healers have significant influence. Families may turn to them for explanations and remedies for autism, which can lead to reliance on traditional practices rather than seeking medical intervention or therapy.
5. Cultural attitudes towards mental health
Mental health issues, including autism, are often not well understood in many communities.
This lack of understanding can perpetuate myths and lead to isolation of affected individuals and families, hindering acceptance and support.
6. Importance of community and kinship
In collectivist cultures, the community plays a crucial role in child-rearing. Families may fear that a child with autism will bring shame to the family or community, affecting their willingness to acknowledge and seek help for the condition.
These traditional beliefs can pose significant barriers to the acceptance and support of individuals with autism.
Increasing awareness and education about autism, along with respect for cultural contexts, are essential steps towards improving acceptance and support for affected families.
The understanding of autism is still evolving, with lifestyle, diet, and delivery methods playing critical roles in its development.
Addressing these factors through public health initiatives, community education, and improved healthcare access can help mitigate the risks associated with autism.
Greater awareness and support for families affected by autism are essential for fostering inclusive communities and ensuring that individuals on the spectrum receive the necessary resources to thrive.
As research continues to unfold, it is imperative to consider local contexts in developing effective strategies to address autism and support affected individuals and their families.
Association of Healthcare Funders of Zimbabwe (AHFoZ) article written by Dr Farzana Naeem (PhD), founder and principal clinical psychologist at Gateway Mental Health Rehabilitation).
Feedback: WhatsApp Dr Farzana Naeem on 0788080001
Email: gatewaymhrehab@gmail.com / ahfoz@ahfoz.co.zw
