By Hunter FM radio Reporter.

MBARARA - UGANDA: Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital is reporting a steady increase in the number of children diagnosed with autism, prompting specialists at the facility to call for greater awareness, early screening, and increased investment in specialized mental health services.

According to child and adolescent mental health specialist Dr. Gerald Wakweyika, the hospital's neurology clinic currently registers at least six new autism cases every month, which translates to about 60 children annually.

He attributed the growing number of cases seen at the hospital partly to improved diagnosis and awareness among health workers and parents.

However, he noted that many children, particularly in rural communities, remain undiagnosed due to limited access to specialized healthcare services.

The specialist explained that autism may result from a combination of genetic, prenatal, and birth-related factors.

These include hereditary influences, self-medication during pregnancy, alcohol and drug use, and exposure to harmful substances, severe maternal stress, premature birth, low birth weight, and fetal distress during delivery.

Beyond diagnosis, Dr. Wakweyika said the hospital continues to face challenges in supporting affected children and their families. He cited stigma as one of the biggest barriers to care, with some parents delaying treatment out of fear of discrimination.