The Ministry of Health in Peru announced on March 28 that it held a health and activity fair in Plaza Túpac Amaru, Magdalena district, to mark World Autism Awareness Day. The event aimed to raise awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and provide preventive services and guidance to families under the theme “Autism: diverse ways of feeling, living, and connecting with the world.”
The ministry said this initiative is intended to sensitize the public about ASD while promoting a more inclusive society that respects the rights and potential of people with this condition.
According to the Ministry of Health, there were 96,512 reported cases of ASD attended in Peru during 2025, with a total of 764,860 care visits provided through health services.
July Caballero, director of the Mental Health Directorate at the ministry, said: “Desde el Ministerio de Salud trabajamos para garantizar una atención integral a las personas con TEA en todas las etapas de vida, promoviendo no solo el acceso a servicios de salud, sino también su inclusión plena en la comunidad.” Caballero also highlighted the importance of families and caregivers in supporting children with ASD: “Es fundamental que las madres, padres y cuidadores puedan reconocer señales de alerta desde los primeros años de vida. Por ello, seguimos fortaleciendo el acompañamiento continuo a las familias.”
Currently there are 305 community mental health centers across Peru staffed by interdisciplinary teams who offer specialized care for ASD. These centers promote early detection and develop individualized care plans involving both family members and local communities.
Additionally, all levels of healthcare facilities provide Growth and Development Control (CRED) services for monitoring child development and identifying possible warning signs early.
