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NASOM and Angsana Unlock the Potential of Early Autism Screening: AVEST Paves the Way for Earlier Screening and Improved Outcomes

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In conjunction with World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) on 2nd April, the National Autism Society of Malaysia (NASOM) and Angsana Health was pleased to announce an anticipated launch of the NASOM-Angsana Autism Virtual Early Screening Tool (AVEST). In celebration of World Autism Month in Malaysia this year, the NASOM-Angsana partnership highlights the importance of early screening and intervention of autism in young children.

AVEST is the first video-enabled screening tool for autism in Malaysia, developed by a strong Angsana clinical team that includes two speech therapists, four medical doctors, two PhDs and a nutritionist, and advised by NASOM and four senior pediatricians. AVEST identifies risk of autism among children of one to four years old, allowing for earlier diagnosis and earlier interventions. AVEST will help parents and caregivers access this ground-breaking digital tool across Malaysia, regardless of their physical location.

“We are delighted to partner with Angsana Health to bring AVEST to families across Malaysia,” said Mr. Julian Wong Ming Vui, Chairman of NASOM. “After hearing numerous feedback from the community that it is difficult to get access to screening and diagnosis, especially in East Malaysia and semi-rural parts of Malaysia, this initiative is one way of overcoming these challenges faced by parents who are unable to attend physical screening sessions or have no access to such services in their area.”

Autism affects around 1 in 100 children worldwide, according to the World Health Organization, and the number continues to rise. Early intervention is crucial to improve outcomes for children with the condition. AVEST combines a series of validated questionnaires and uploaded videos, without the need for parents or their children to be physically present at the clinic. AVEST examines a child’s naturalistic social communication skills, behaviour, and sensory differences, the three key areas that are impacted by autism.

“At Angsana Health, we are committed to using technology to improve healthcare access and outcomes, and we are excited to partner with NASOM to bring AVEST to families across Malaysia,” said Dr. Marjorie Ong Jia Yi and Ms. Fariza Nasreen as the Co-Leads of the AVEST product team. “AVEST is Malaysia’s first virtual autism screening, and it will be available at an affordable price to increase healthcare access for Malaysians,” added Dr Khor Swee Kheng, CEO of Angsana Health.

The NASOM-Angsana partnership for AVEST is an important development for autism in Malaysia. Families will be supported in seeking timely diagnosis and intervention for their children through a network of partnering associations and clinics across Malaysia. AVEST will be available from May 2023, and has been designed to be culturally responsive to local needs. NASOM and Angsana Health will work together to promote its use across the country. Interested partners are invited to contact NASOM or Angsana Health.

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