Why Early and Accurate Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Diagnosis Matters

As a parent, you want to do everything you can to help your child thrive. But perhaps despite your best efforts, you might find something still doesn’t feel right. Maybe your child isn’t meeting certain developmental milestones. Maybe they seem withdrawn in social settings, overly focused on routines, or disconnected in ways you can’t quite understand.

While Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is one explanation or diagnosis that might come to mind, it’s important to remember that many other conditions can cause similar challenges. Autism can share traits with conditions like speech delays, shyness, or intellectual disability. To ensure your child receives the support they need, an early and accurate diagnosis is essential. 

The Brain & Performance Centre, a DP World Company, is here to guide you through this journey. We’ll help you understand what an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis means and ensure your child has the right support to reach their full potential—not by changing who they are, but by understanding how they thrive

Why an Early and Accurate Autism Diagnosis Matters

Many developmental disorders can look alike at first. But beneath the surface, the causes—and the kind of support each child needs—can be very different.

That’s why understanding the full picture is so important. With the right diagnosis, your child can receive care tailored to their individual needs.

Meanwhile, misdiagnosis can mean inappropriate interventions and missed opportunities to provide effective support. Studies across the globe report that children with misdiagnosed autism wait on average three years to receive the right diagnosis and treatment: 

• On average, children in developed countries will wait for over six months to see a pediatric neurologist or developmental specialist for the first time.
• “Parents often have to wait an average of 3 years between their first concerns and their child receiving an ASD diagnosis.”

Early and Accurate Intervention = Better Outcomes

With an early diagnosis, you can bypass these lost years and give your child access to the care they truly need.

Children diagnosed early and accurately and provided with targeted therapies experience better outcomes. 

• Symptoms of ASD are nonspecific and sometimes may be part of a medical condition that can be treated at the root cause (for example, some forms of epilepsy can manifest as ASD symptoms, treating the epilepsy will improve the displayed symptoms). 
• “Interventions initiated early—especially those before the age of three—often lead to substantial advancements in social communication, cognitive skills, and adaptive behaviors.”
• Emotion regulation therapies “improved ER [emotional regulation]/ED [emotional dysregulation], internalizing, social skills” for those accurately diagnosed with ASD.

A recent study illustrates promising results for those who undergo hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), showing that children with ASD who received this therapy “acquired more verbal skills than their counterparts in the control group.”

Is There a Difference Between Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder?

While the terms “autism” and “Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)” are often used interchangeably, ASD is a range of symptom expression and therefore, medically speaking, Autism Spectrum Disorder is a more accurate  term used by doctors and specialists today.

Here’s why: 

Originally, autism was seen as a specific developmental disorder with core challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. Over time, as understanding of autism grew, experts realised autism isn’t one-size-fits-all—it varies widely from person to person. That’s why the term “spectrum” was introduced.

Autism Spectrum Disorder reflects this broader view. It includes a wide range of traits and levels of support needs—from individuals who are nonverbal and need daily assistance to those who are highly verbal but may still struggle with some aspects of daily life. It also now includes what used to be separate diagnoses, like Asperger’s Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified.

ASD is a cluster of symptoms that can have very different causes:

1. A child could be displaying symptoms since birth, making it probable that the reason for displaying these symptoms is genetic or due to pregnancy complications.
2. Symptoms can start in a child that was normally developing but suffered a traumatic head injury or near drowning, and then began regressing. We call this: regressive autism.
3. Sometimes, young children will start regressing and displaying autism symptoms after a severe fever disease or brain infection. This is also considered to be regressive autism.

So, while the terms may differ, the heart of it remains the same: Every child with ASD is unique. And with the right diagnosis, we can begin to understand and support each child by tailoring the treatment which is best suited to their needs. 

To learn more, explore our most-asked ASD questions, or
read more: Improve Your Child’s Quality of Life: Understanding the Factors that Affect Child Development

Why Choose The Brain & Performance Centre?

Receiving a comprehensive and personalised evaluation for your child is the next step to getting an accurate diagnosis and the right support.

The Brain & Performance Centre offers comprehensive youth treatment programmes for various paediatric neurological conditions. Our youth and ASD assessments are designed to get to the root cause of your child’s symptoms. 

Unmatched Expertise and Technology

Our clinicians use the latest diagnostic technologies, including neuropsychological testing and behavioural analysis, cutting edge brain imaging, DNA testing, advanced laboratory tests and more. In addition, your child will be assessed by our  expertise of the multidisciplinary team. To our team, diagnosis is not just a process—it’s a promise to treat each child in a bespoke manner addressing their individual needs. 

Global Trust. Local Compassion

Located in the heart of Dubai, The Brain & Performance Centre serves families from all over the UAE and beyond. We recognise that every culture, every child, and every parent’s concern deserves respect and understanding.

Based on Data

Data combined with compassion is our approach to diagnostics and treatment—both supported by decades of global experience and research. Our state-of-the-art clinic is committed to helping you find accurate, evidence-based answers and giving your child the support they need to feel seen and grow into their full potential.

Whether your child has ASD or another condition, our data-driven approach can help you pinpoint your child’s needs and determine the most appropriate course of treatment.

We Understand the Stakes

Getting a diagnosis can feel overwhelming—but it can also be empowering. Whether it’s autism, another developmental condition, or something else entirely, we’re here to help you and your child move forward with confidence.

Start your journey with us today. Contact us or book an autism assessment.

A Parent’s Journey: Finding Light in the Fog

When her daughter struggled to express herself, one mother knew something was wrong. Teachers gently mentioned that her daughter was not at the same level as her classmates—socially or academically. Concerned, she visited doctors across Egypt and Dubai but kept hearing the same thing: “She’ll catch up. Just give it time.”

Still, in her heart, she felt there was more to the story. As time passed, her daughter’s challenges grew. School became difficult, and making friends felt out of reach.

Then she found The Brain & Performance Centre.

From the moment she arrived, she felt seen and supported. The team listened closely, provided clear answers, and created a personalised two-month treatment plan.

The difference was life-changing. “She got 90% better,” the mother shared. Her daughter has been thriving in school, forming friendships, and regaining confidence.

To other parents, she offers this advice:

“If you have a child who requires special care, I recommend maintaining patience and determination […] refusing to accept the current situation as the final outcome. You must identify the root cause and initiate treatment.”

Take the First Step Toward Clarity and Confidence

When it comes to autism and developmental disorders, every moment counts. The earlier you know, the earlier you can act—and the better the outcomes for your child’s future.

Don’t wait in the dark. Let clarity, compassion, and clinical excellence light the way. If you believe your child may have autism, learn how our ASD assessment can help.