The Minister of Health reviews the efforts of the Presidential Initiative for Mental Health and Detection "Autism"
Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health and Population, confirmed that the political leadership places the health file at the top of its priorities, as health, in its correct definition, is a state of physical, psychological and social perfection that is a fundamental pillar of individual well-being and societal progress, reviewing the efforts of the Egyptian state in this regard. The file, including the Presidential Initiative to Support Mental Health, and its role in early detection procedures for autism spectrum disorders, which represents a radical shift in how we deal with health. Psychological.
His opening speech came via video conference technology. In the presence of Dr. Mohamed Hassani, Assistant Minister of Health and Population for Public Health Initiatives, during the signing activities of a cooperative agreement between the Ministry of Health and Population And the American University of Louisville, regarding cooperation for early detection of the autism spectrum, where the Minister expressed his happiness with this fruitful partnership, adding that this agreement emphasizes the importance of innovation, cooperation and firm commitment to improving the lives of patients living with mental health challenges and neurodevelopmental conditions, especially autism spectrum disorders.
"Abdul Ghaffar" Highlighting the urgent need to comprehensively address mental health issues, as mental and behavioral disorders represent 10% of health care expenditures associated with non-communicable diseases in general, which underscores the economic and societal importance of addressing these challenges.
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"Abdul Ghaffar" The importance of the Presidential Mental Health Initiative, which relies on supporting mental health Early detection of autism spectrum disorders, and reaching at-risk groups, rely on the use of culturally sensitive screening tools and innovative methods such as the Modified Autism Inventory in Young Children (MCHAT) during routine vaccination visits at the age of 18 months, provided that this tool allows, and it is one of the The most widely used screening tool in the world, early detection of autism, followed by timely referrals and tailored interventions.
He pointed out "Abdul Ghaffar" Early detection is crucial, as research shows that early therapeutic interventions during periods of peak neuroplasticity, typically between birth and 5 years of age, lead to significantly better outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorders.
The Deputy Prime Minister stated that there is a research study currently being conducted within the Abbasiya Mental Health Hospital, and this research seeks to develop and prove the validity of biomarkers for early and more accurate diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders in children at the age of 18 months. , This is a significant improvement compared to the current average age of diagnosis, which ranges between 4 to 5 years. Al-Abbasiya Mental Health Hospital was chosen as one of the oldest mental health institutions in Egypt. Al-Abbasiya Hospital has long been at the forefront of providing care, treatment and rehabilitation to individuals suffering from mental health challenges. Mental health.
He added that Al-Abbasiya Psychiatric Hospital is not only a center for clinical services, but it is also a center for education, training and research in the field of mental health, and it is also a beacon of hope for countless people. It reaches countless numbers of individuals and families, offering a wide range of services that meet the diverse needs of those seeking care.
"Abdul Ghaffar" This study explores a wide range of diagnostic indicators, including genetic variations, structural MRI data, and environmental factors such as metal exposure, and these biomarkers facilitate early diagnosis, enabling more personalized and effective interventions, tailored to the unique needs of each child.< /p>
He noted that this research study is consistent with Egypt’s broader efforts to integrate mental health services into primary care settings, facilitate access to support and reduce the stigma often associated with mental health challenges, Whether through pre-marital mental health screenings, psychological counseling, or community outreach programmes, we are building a framework that enables individuals to seek help with confidence and without judgement.
The Deputy Prime Minister, in his speech, said that in line with the slogan The presidential initiative “Your Health, Your Happiness”, as the state is keen to promote a future in which mental health is not viewed as a separate issue, but rather as an integral component of public health and quality of life. By proactively addressing conditions such as anxiety, depression, and autism, it Attention is not only paid to enhancing the well-being of the individual, but also work is being done to strengthen the economic and social fabric.
"Abdul Ghaffar" He expressed the Egyptian state’s renewed commitment through this partnership to address mental health challenges, and renewed his deep gratitude to the University of Louisville and the exceptional team of researchers leading this important work, as he stressed that this cooperation will result in pioneering progress in the field of autism research and care.  ;
He concluded his speech by calling on everyone, for this partnership to serve as a beacon of hope that motivates communities so that mental health services are available, free of stigma, and fully integrated. Deep in all health care systems, emphasizing that societies advance science and the health of their individuals.
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