World Autism Awareness Day: Indian Doctors Explain Breakthrough Therapies From Behavioural To Biomedical Approaches

In classrooms and clinics across India, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is increasingly becoming an important topic of discourse. Yet, for many families, the journey from recognising early signs to accessing the right support remains complex and often overwhelming. With the advancement in science, so does our understanding of autism, shifting the focus to more personalised, holistic care is pertinent. Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, behaviour, and social interaction. Importantly, it is not a disease that needs to be "cured," but a spectrum of differences that require understanding, acceptance, and tailored support. What is changing rapidly, however, is how the medical and healthcare communities now support people on the spectrum, from conventional behavioural therapies to emerging biomedical and technology-driven interventions.

India's Growing Challenge

In India, autism is no longer considered rare. According to a study in journal Cureus, in India is a growing public health concern, with an estimated prevalence of 1 in 65 to 1 in 68 children, which is impacting approximately 2 million children making it a significant public health concern. However, the real numbers could be higher due to widespread underdiagnosis.

"Earlier therapies, such as Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), alongside speech and occupational therapy, have made the foundation of autism care, which aimed at building communication skills, social skills, and adaptive behaviors, but with medical advancement, the healthcare sector is moving towards modern therapies that primarily address the root biological, neurological, and sensory aspects of ASD," says Dr. Manish Kulshrestha, Senior Consultant - Neurology, Paras Health Udaipur.

"While these traditional approaches remain integral to the treatment, the biomedical front is exploring how the body may influence behaviour and development in autism. Researchers are studying areas related to gut health, nutrition, microbiome modulation, and targeted supplementation to observe how they may correlate to autism. Although still emerging, these approaches highlight the importance of personalized medicine, recognising that autism is not a single condition but a spectrum with diverse causes and presentations," he adds.

Several factors contribute to this gap. Limited awareness among parents and educators often delays early identification. In addition, access to specialised screening and trained professionals remains uneven, especially outside major cities. This means many children miss the crucial window for early intervention, which can significantly improve outcomes.

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Why Early Support Matters

Early intervention is widely recognised as one of the most effective ways to support children with autism. It can improve communication skills, enhance social interaction, and help children navigate daily life more independently. "Alongside behavioural support, speech therapy improves communication, and occupational therapy assists with daily functioning and managing environmental sensitivities," says Dr Lovelina Singh, Additional Director, Neurology, Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, adding, "The focus today is on personalising support to help each child reach their full potential." This shift towards individualised care is central to modern autism therapy.

Behavioural Therapies Still Lead The Way

For decades, behavioural therapies have been the cornerstone of autism intervention. Among them, Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) remains one of the most widely used approaches. ABA focuses on reinforcing positive behaviours while reducing those that may interfere with learning or communication. Through structured and repetitive techniques, it helps children develop essential life skills, including language, social interaction, and self-care. However, behavioural therapy itself is evolving.

Newer approaches, such as naturalistic developmental behavioural interventions, are gaining popularity. These methods are less rigid and more child-centred, integrating learning into everyday activities like play and routine interactions. They align closely with the neurodiversity movement, which emphasises acceptance and respect for neurological differences rather than forcing conformity.

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The Role of Technology in Autism Care

Technology is reshaping how behavioural therapies are delivered and experienced. From mobile applications to virtual reality tools, digital innovation is opening up new ways to support communication and social skills. Interactive platforms can help children practise recognising facial expressions, understanding emotions, and navigating social situations in a safe and controlled environment.

Robot-assisted therapy is another emerging area, particularly effective for younger children. Robots can make learning less intimidating and more engaging, encouraging interaction in ways that traditional methods sometimes cannot.

These tools are not replacements for human therapists but powerful supplements that enhance engagement and accessibility.

The Rise of Biomedical Approaches

Alongside behavioural strategies, biomedical research is gaining traction. Advances in neuroscience and genetics have revealed that autism involves a complex interplay of biological factors, including brain connectivity, immune responses, and genetic variations. This has paved the way for more targeted and individualised interventions.

"Autism involves a wide range of biological factors, and this understanding is driving a shift towards more personalised treatments," explains Dr Singh.

"One important area is pharmacological research. While there is currently no medication that treats the core features of autism, certain drugs are used to manage associated conditions such as anxiety, hyperactivity, and sleep disturbances," adds Dr Singh.

Researchers are now working on medications that target specific neural pathways, with the aim of improving communication and social functioning. Although still in development, these treatments represent a promising step forward.

Precision Medicine

One of the most exciting developments in autism care is precision medicine. This approach focuses on tailoring treatments based on an individual's genetic and biological profile.

Rather than applying the same intervention to every child, precision medicine recognises the diversity within the autism spectrum. It allows clinicians to design therapies that are more effective and relevant to each individual.

Cutting-edge biomedical innovations are also being explored, though many are still under investigation. Stem cell therapy and gene-based interventions aim to address underlying biological mechanisms. While these approaches hold potential, they are not yet widely available or fully proven, and experts urge caution.

Neuromodulation techniques, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation, are another area of interest. These methods attempt to influence brain activity and may help improve certain symptoms, though more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness. Nutritional and metabolic therapies are also being studied, particularly in relation to genetic pathways and co-occurring conditions. In some cases, specialised diets or supplements may help manage specific symptoms, but these should always be guided by medical professionals.

A Holistic Approach Is Key

What is becoming increasingly clear is that no single therapy works for everyone. "The future of autism care lies in combining behavioural strategies with biomedical and technological innovations," says Dr Singh. "A holistic and personalised approach is essential to support individuals in leading fulfilling and independent lives."

This means integrating therapies such as behavioural interventions, speech and occupational therapy, medical support, and digital tools into a cohesive care plan tailored to each individual.

In India, bridging the gap between urban and rural healthcare, improving early screening, and increasing public awareness will be crucial steps forward. Autism is not a limitation but a different way of experiencing the world. With the right support, individuals on the spectrum can thrive, contribute, and lead meaningful lives. The shift from purely behavioural approaches to a more integrated biomedical model does not replace what has worked in the past. Instead, it builds upon it, offering a more nuanced and effective way to support every individual's unique journey.

Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.