95 newborns detected with disabilities since 2018

Ninety-five newborn babies were detected with disabilities in Abu Dhabi under 3/12 Programme since its launch in 2018.

Marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO) stated that 57 of the disabled children were citizens while 38 were members of resident families.

About 14,902 newborns who were enrolled in the programme were examined by hospitals across the emirate, including 314 children in 2018, 8,517 children in 2019, and 6,071 children in 2020.

The ZHO developed an electronic link with the Abu Dhabi Department of Health and the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company - SEHA, with the aim of early identification of disabilities at key developmental and life stages, such as during the provision of infant and child vaccinations.

From birth to six years, the organisation aims to utilise this important process to identify any indicators or symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorders, communication disorders, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Regarding the results of the 3/12 Programme, Abdullah Abdulalee Al Humaidan, Secretary-General of the ZHO, said that several disability diagnoses, across various disability classifications, had been identified. 

“However, with the rapid implementation of early intervention programmes, it is possible to protect these individuals and stabilise their diagnosis, preventing deterioration.”

Sidra Al-Mansoori, Director of the People of Determination Services Department at the ZHO intellectual disability was the most prevalent disability classification identified.

Auditory disabilities were identified in 13 cases while 10 cases were identified as having multiple disabilities, she added.