The Paediatric Society of Ghana (PSG) has issued a public statement to address and clarify misconceptions surrounding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), following a viral social media video in which a mother linked her daughter’s autism to excessive oxygen use in an incubator.
While commending the mother for bravely sharing her story during Autism Awareness Month, the PSG emphasized that the claims made in the video are medically inaccurate.
“Babies may require oxygen as part of medical care, but it is not a cause of autism,” the Society stated.
In alignment with this year’s World Autism Awareness Day theme, “Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals,” the PSG reiterated that autism is a neurodevelopmental condition influenced by genetic and environmental factors — not curses, vaccines, or isolated medical interventions.
The Society also raised concerns about the potential negative effects of excessive screen time, which may worsen symptoms of autism.
PSG urged health workers to be vigilant in identifying and referring children with potential signs of ASD for appropriate care.
Dr. Hilda Mantebea Boye, President of the PSG, called for greater public support, urging parents, teachers, religious leaders, and caregivers to seek early medical help for children with developmental concerns.
“Early intervention improves outcomes,” she emphasized, stressing the importance of fighting stigma and fostering inclusivity for children with autism in Ghanaian communities.
Read the statement below:
