World Autism Day : ‘Autism biologically rooted in genes, early intervention can transform outcomes’

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• 02 Apr 2026

Dr Suhail Naik says early brain shaped by human interaction not digital stimulation

Srinagar, Apr 01: Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a diverse group of conditions characterised by some degree of difficulty with social interaction and communication. Other characteristics are atypical patterns of activities and behaviours, such as difficulty with transition from one activity to another, a focus on details and unusual reactions to sensations.

As the world observes World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, conversations around child development, screen exposure, and neurodevelopmental disorders are gaining urgency. 

In an interview with Rising Kashmir’s Mansoor Peer, Dr Suhail Naik, Senior Consultant and Assistant Professor, Department of Paediatrics, GMC Srinagar, a clinician-researcher actively contributing to paediatric neurology and neurodevelopmental research, shared insights on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), its rising recognition, and the importance of early intervention.

RK: How should society understand autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?

SN: Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition to be understood. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder and affects the intimate interaction of the child with the parents and surroundings, which in turn impacts the child’s language, communication, social interaction and behaviour. The term spectrum is important because every child with this condition has a different severity of symptoms, ranging from mild impairment to severe functional disability.

All neurodevelopmental disorders have a genetic origin, and modern neuroscience and neurogenetics have clearly shown that autism is biologically rooted in genes. These children have a normal brain structure, with normal head size, but the functioning of the brain is impaired in different domains.

In computer knowledge, the hardware of the brain seems normal, but the trouble is in the software of the brain. The brain functions like a computer, and it has millions of microprocessors, very complicated wiring and fascinating neurotransmitters to function properly. Impairment at the microprocessor level results in developmental disorders.

RK: Many parents feel autism is increasing rapidly. Is it true?

SN: What we are witnessing is largely a rise in recognition, not necessarily a true surge. Firstly, broader diagnostic criteria and better awareness have led to earlier identification. Secondly, due to modernisation and urbanisation, our old social fabric stands broken.

In past large families, visiting relatives and children playing together for a long time alleviated symptoms in a child with mild autism spectrum.

The loss of social fabric, interaction, and screen time are all environmental risk factors to increase the apparent surge. Interestingly, our regional research has shown a wide spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders in children, highlighting the importance of early screening and structured evaluation.

RK: You have contributed to neurological research. How does your work connect to autism care?

SN: My research has primarily focused on paediatric neurological emergencies and neurodevelopmental profiles, including conditions like status epilepticus and developmental disorders.

Our research time and again vindicated that early brain insults, delayed recognition, and lack of intervention significantly affect long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes.

The same principle applies strongly to autism; its early identification and intervention can dramatically change a child’s trajectory. In early childhood years of development, there is neuroplasticity and genetic plasticity, which can be moulded if proper intervention is done at the right time.

RK: The term ‘virtual autism’ is being widely discussed. What is your scientific stance?

SN: Virtual autism is not a formal diagnosis, and this term is not recognised by DSM 5 or ICD 10, but it reflects a real clinical observation.

Excessive screen exposure in early childhood can lead to speech delay, poor eye contact, and reduced social interaction. These features are often reversible with environmental correction, unlike classical ASD. So, the message is not panic, but prevention and balance.

RK: What red flags should parents look for?

SN: Poor eye contact, no response to name, delayed speech, lack of social smile, repetitive stereotypic behaviours.

RK: What about screen exposure in early years?

SN: Remember, the early brain is shaped by human interaction and not digital stimulation.

A child learns through special senses like eye contact, hearing, tasting,

Touch and play. Screens replace these essential inputs, leading to sensory and social deprivation.

RK: Can autism be treated?

SN: There is no cure, but there is a powerful intervention to strengthen the strength of a weak child to make him an independent individual at least. Speech therapy, occupational therapy and behavioural therapy are available.

Parental training (ST, OT, BT, PT) are utmost important, particularly in the early days of child development, to get optimal functioning restored. The earlier we start, the better the outcome. Neuroplasticity in children is remarkable; the brain can adapt, learn, and improve significantly.

RK: Your message on this day?

SN: Don’t label, understand. Don’t delay, but act early. Don’t isolate, but include. Equity and equality must prevail. All schools should have a special education programme SEP for especially abled children, but inclusive education is a must.

Children with autism are not limited; they are differently wired. With the right support, they can thrive, contribute, and succeed.

As Autism Awareness Day approaches, this conversation reminds us that the debate is not just medical, but also social, emotional, and ethical.

Balancing science, awareness, and compassion is the need of the hour.

In the end, every child deserves not just a diagnosis, but understanding, opportunity, and dignity.