Autism Prevalence in Asia: Understanding the Data to Drive Real Change

Statistics hold immense power in ASD activism. Above all, reliable data on autism prevalence indicates the actual impact of the disorder in society and can be used by public and private institutions to develop policies and initiatives to support the affected communities.

A report released this year by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention posits that the autism prevalence in the United States is 1 in 31, based on a comprehensive surveillance program on children in 14 states and Puerto Rico. In comparison, questions have been raised about the credibility of corresponding figures in many East and South Asian countries, which has kept governments and families from taking the right steps to address the issue effectively.

This article examines the gaps in ASD data across these regions and why updated statistics are vital for real change.

Autism Prevalence in Hong Kong

The most recent official survey on persons with disabilities and chronic diseases, conducted by the Census and Statistics Department in 2020, puts Hong Kong’s autism population at 22,400—roughly 0.3% of the population. However, this figure has been disputed by the volunteering organization Autism Hong Kong, which believes that 192,000 to 230,000 people (or 2.5% to 3% of the population) are on the spectrum.

For families in Hong Kong, updated data could highlight the overwhelming demand for autism diagnoses and services. For instance, getting a diagnosis through the government-run Child Assessment Centre takes up to a year for an initial developmental assessment and another year or so for the full process to be completed. The city’s autism prevalence rate should reflect this demand and serve as a parameter for giving citizens better access to professional services at an affordable price.

ASD Rates in Japan

In Japan, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare reported in 2016 that 1% of the population had been affected by autism. However, several scholarly studies indicate that the prevalence rate likely exceeds 3% and has not risen significantly over the years.

Although Japan has a well-developed healthcare infrastructure, the lack of updated autism prevalence data hinders the ability of policymakers to fully grasp the scale of the issue. Improved data collection could help identify gaps in services and ensure that families across the country have the resources they need.

Autism Statistics in South Korea

Statistics from Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare record a registered autism population of 41,442 in 2023, which corresponds to just 0.09% of the national population. However, local experts estimated as early as 2011 that autism affected 2.64% of children, suggesting a significant underreporting of cases.

Cultural stigma has been identified as a key barrier to accurate data collection in South Korea. Experts have commented on how the nation’s obsession with cultural homogeneity has led to discrimination against the neurodivergent community, discouraging many families from seeking or reporting diagnoses. These norms were challenged by the hit K-drama Extraordinary Attorney Woo, which has sparked new conversations about autism. However, more sustained campaigns are required to reverse negative public perceptions.
 

Autism Prevalence in Taiwan

A report from Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare shows that as of the first quarter of 2025, there are 23,055 Taiwanese citizens certified as autistic—approximately 0.1% of the population.

While Taiwan has made progress in providing autism support services, the lack of comprehensive prevalence data makes it difficult to determine whether current measures are sufficient. Updated statistics would allow policymakers to better allocate resources and address gaps in autism services.

Autism Rates in India: Challenges and Gaps in Data

India’s autism prevalence data varies widely depending on the source. Two studies conducted in 2015 and 2016 yielded different results, reporting rates of 0.09% and 0.23% based on varying sample sizes and age groups.

In a country as large and diverse as India, the lack of standardized data collection methods is a significant hurdle. Many rural areas lack access to diagnostic services, leaving countless cases undocumented. Without reliable prevalence data, it is difficult to address the needs of the autism community in India effectively.

ASD Prevalence in Singapore: Progress and the Need for Updated Data

Singapore lacks official government data on autism prevalence, with most discussions relying on a 2016 estimate by the Autism Resource Centre. The organization places the figure at around 50,000 people, or about 1% of the population.

Singapore has made strides in supporting its autism community, offering a range of services for children and adults. However, updated prevalence data is necessary to ensure that resources are directed toward underserved populations and that future needs are adequately addressed.

Autism Prevalence in Other South and Southeast Asian Countries

In South and Southeast Asia, many countries lack reliable autism prevalence data. For example, Pakistan, Nepal, Maldives, and Bhutan had no official data as of 2017. In Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, studies have reported prevalence rates ranging from 0.09% to 1.07%, but methodological inconsistencies make these figures difficult to compare.

In Southeast Asia, countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines have no comprehensive autism statistics, despite growing awareness and advocacy efforts. These gaps highlight the urgent need for improved data collection systems across the region.
 

Challenges in Autism Data Collection Across Asia

The lack of reliable autism prevalence data in East and South Asia can be attributed to several factors.

First, underdeveloped systems in some countries mean cases are often not properly filed. Limited funding for large-scale research further compounds the problem.

Second, methodological inconsistencies between studies make it difficult to compare data across countries. For instance, South Asian researchers have pointed out that studies in India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka used vastly different sample sizes—one with a pool of 374 participants, another with over 18,000—leading to wide variability in reported prevalence rates.

Finally, cultural stigma is a significant barrier. In many countries, families are reluctant to seek a diagnosis due to fear of discrimination. This reluctance skews the data, making it difficult to determine the true prevalence of autism.
 

Why Accurate Autism Statistics Matter for Families in Asia

Accurate autism prevalence data is critical for driving meaningful change. For governments, it provides the foundation to develop effective policies and allocate resources where they are most needed. For example, California’s regional centers in the United States prioritize autism support based on data showing the demand for services, training hundreds of pediatricians to screen children at early ages.

In Asia, community programs backing ASD families have made headway, offering consultations, therapy, social skills training, and other services. Reliable statistics could help identify underserved areas and direct resources to where they are needed most.

For individual families, learning that autism is more common than they might have thought can be reassuring. It encourages parents to connect with others in similar situations, share experiences, and foster an inclusive society that supports all individuals on the spectrum.

Time for Change: Improving Autism Data in East and South Asia

Governments and experts must work together to optimize systems for autism data collection in East and South Asia. Understanding the true prevalence of autism is the first step toward meaningful change, ensuring that families and individuals on the spectrum receive the support they deserve.

Disclaimer:

The statistics in this article are based on available reports and studies. Due to limited access to consistent official data in some regions, these figures are estimates and should not be considered definitive.