In Russia, screening for autism spectrum disorders (ASD) involves a dedicated M-CHAT-R/F questionnaire filled out by parents, guided by specialists from leading medical institutions. A professor from the Russian National Research Medical University and a senior researcher at the Research Institute of Pediatrics and Child Health emphasize that this screening typically occurs when a child reaches the age of two. The collaboration among health authorities, researchers, and clinicians underscores the importance of early detection and structured follow-up in the Russian healthcare landscape.
“M-CHAT-R/F is a concise questionnaire consisting of twenty yes or no items, each carrying a specific score. The scoring ranges indicate risk levels: 0–2 signals low risk, 3–7 suggests medium risk, and 8–20 denotes high risk for ASD. The instrument also acknowledges the possibility of false positives and false negatives. Regardless of the score, a comprehensive clinical evaluation is essential. In particular, a child flagged as medium to high risk should undergo in-depth assessments by a pediatrician and a neurologist, with the involvement of audiology specialists if needed. For those with average to high risk, referral to a child psychiatrist is advised, since only a psychiatrist holds the authority to establish an ASD diagnosis,” explained the specialist.
The expert highlighted the country’s concept of early intervention, noting that once ASD is diagnosed, a child may qualify for services within an age-appropriate window of 0 to 3 years for targeted early support. This approach aims to maximize developmental outcomes by coordinating care across disciplines and services.
“Parents can access help from an interdisciplinary team that includes health professionals, educational psychologists, and social workers. The child remains under professional supervision, with psychological correction and behavioral therapy techniques often incorporated into the plan,” Turti noted, describing how coordinated care is organized in practice. The emphasis is on integrated care pathways that connect medical assessment, educational support, and family-centered planning.
Turti also pointed out that, at present, psychotropic medications for ASD are not routinely used. When they are considered, prescriptions are issued only under strict clinical indications by a psychiatrist, ensuring careful evaluation of benefits and potential risks for each child.
The expert stressed that earlier diagnosis and the prompt start of corrective interventions correlate with better outcomes in health, behavior, socialization, and overall quality of life for children with ASD. The emphasis on timely action reflects a public health priority in Russia, where early access to services can shape developmental trajectories over time.
For families seeking information about the earliest signs of autism, the typical ages at which ASD can be detected, and the available treatment approaches in Russia, see the report from the social news outlet cited (Source: socialbites.ca). This resource highlights practical steps parents can take, from recognizing early indicators to navigating the healthcare system and accessing multidisciplinary support networks.