Islamabad (TDI): As part of World Autism Awareness Month, a significant step towards regional collaboration and community care was taken on Tuesday as the Maroof Early Intervention Therapy Unit (EITU) successfully concluded its two-day free medical camps in Islamabad.
The event aimed to address the critical need for autism awareness, early diagnosis, and accessible care in Pakistan.
The closing session was attended by Dr. Ramez Alraee, Ambassador of the Syria to Pakistan, as Chief Guest. Also present was the Deputy Head of Mission from the Embassy of Iraq Raghda Raghda Nabeel Fauzi.
They appreciated Pakistan’s growing efforts in inclusive education and healthcare, particularly for children with special needs.
During his remarks, Dr. Ramez Alraee emphasized the importance of cooperation between Pakistan and Syria in the field of special education and health, expressing the Syrian community’s commitment to assist Pakistan in promoting inclusive care models.
He praised Maroof’s initiatives, calling them “deeply inspiring and essential for building an inclusive society.”
Haroon Naseer the CEO of Maroof Int’l Hospital said that according to global estimates, 1 in 100 children is diagnosed with ASD.
In Pakistan, where awareness remains limited and diagnostic capacity critically low, the burden is growing, he said.
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“There are fewer than 100 trained consultants across the country capable of accurately diagnosing autism—a gap that severely delays early intervention, often critical before the age of 5.”
He reiterated the hospital’s long-standing commitment: “Our Early Intervention Therapy Unit reflects MIH’s vision of timely, accessible, and dignified care for every child, regardless of their challenges.”
The free autism diagnostic consultations were led by Prof. Dr. S. Hashim Raza, Consultant at East Surrey NHS Trust, UK, and one of only two certified specialists in Pakistan qualified to diagnose autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
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He was assisted by Tehreem Khan, Head of Maroof EITU. Their team provided guidance to dozens of parents on identifying early signs and supporting developmental needs.
Simultaneously, the Maroof Dental Department conducted free dental screenings led by Dr. Maira Nazim, offering valuable oral health consultations and distributing discounted care vouchers to promote dental hygiene among families.
Rubina Afzal, Head Corporate – Global Projects & Programs at MIH, concluded: “This isn’t just an event—it’s a heartfelt effort to bring visibility to the needs of children with autism and their families. Through this free two-day camp, we’ve offered more than just consultations. We’ve offered listening ears, open hearts, and a space where every child is seen and supported.”
