Knowledge and nutrition awareness of parents of Autistic children in selected centers “Khartoum State”

Abstract

The aim of the study was to identify parent’s knowledge about autism, dietary pattern and health problems of autistic. Across-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 50 parents in selected centers in Khartoum State. Result indicated that parent’s knowledge about autistic children characteristics was (67.3%). The score knowledge of parents about nutrition need, health problems for these children were (63%) and (50.8%) respectively. The overall score knowledge and nutrition awareness of parents of autistic children was (60.4%), which indicate moderate adequate knowledge. Recommendation from the study suggested that; availability of nutritionist in the autistic centers is highly recommended, regular nutrition assessment of children is essential, and mothers must give more attention to their children dietary habits.