Abstract: World Journal of Medicine and Health Care

Abstract:
Developmental disabilities (DDs) refer to a group of conditions that influence the early development of children and cause changes in their normal developmental pattern affecting their physical, language and mental abilities. Autism which is an example of DDs is the most frequently diagnosed globally; Cameroon inclusive. In fact, its prevalence is on the rise due to awareness and improved methods of diagnosis. Children with autism do not achieve developmental milestones as typically developing children do and as such might face difficulties transiting from youth to adulthood. As a result, parents of these children go through stressful moments especially in settings where the necessary treatment and support systems are not available. This paper presents parents’ experiences regarding the attainment of developmental milestones by children with autism, transition to adulthood, treatment approaches and support options.