Awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder Among Primary Healthcare Workers in Gombe State

This study assesses the level of awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder among primary healthcare workers in Gombe State, North East Nigeria. Primary healthcare workers, including community health extension workers, nurses, and general practitioners at primary healthcare centres, represent the first point of professional contact for families raising children with developmental conditions. Their awareness, attitudes, and referral competence are therefore critical determinants of whether children with autism receive timely diagnosis and early intervention. Using a descriptive cross-sectional survey design, the study samples two hundred and fifty primary healthcare workers from thirty primary healthcare facilities across three local government areas in Gombe metropolis. A validated Autism Awareness Questionnaire measuring knowledge of signs, causes, and intervention strategies is administered alongside a referral competence checklist. Data are analysed using percentages, mean scores, and chi-square tests. The study identifies specific knowledge gaps and explores associations between awareness levels and variables including professional cadre, years of experience, and prior training exposure. Findings are anticipated to confirm widespread inadequacy of autism-related knowledge, particularly regarding early behavioural indicators and referral pathways. Recommendations include integrating autism awareness modules into primary healthcare worker continuing education programmes and developing community-facing Hausa-language information materials on autism recognition. The study informs collaboration between the Gombe State Ministry of Health and Special Education to create a functional early identification referral network. Keywords: autism awareness, primary healthcare workers, Gombe State, early identification, neurodevelopmental disorders.