Number of Autism Diagnoses in State Insurer Data Rose in 2025

Bratislava, 6 April (TASR) – The number of people with autism spectrum disorders signed up with state-run insurance company VsZP rose from 5,220 to 5,696 in 2025, TASR has been told by the insurer's spokesperson Danka Capakova. According to the spokesperson, the increase doesn't reflect a higher incidence of autism. Experts link the growth to better awareness, improved diagnostics and more willingness among parents to seek professional help. "Autism isn't a rare diagnosis, it's a reality for a large number of Slovak families. Data show that the number of children diagnosed with this disorder by doctors increases every year, and as a society we should accept their special needs," said VsZP general director Matus Jurovych. The insurer added that the most significant increase was recorded in the population group under 18 years of age. There is also a marked difference between genders, with boys diagnosed roughly three times more often than girls. "The same ratio applies among adult men and women. This difference is consistent across all monitored years and corresponds to the Europe-wide trend," added Capakova. mf/df