Access to Precision Medicine in Autism Spectrum Disorder in Panama:
Methylation and FRAT Panel According to Socioeconomic Context
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61454/ty1cgt90Keywords:
autism spectrum disorder, precision medicine, molecular diagnosis, folinic acid, socioeconomic status, health equityAbstract
This article examines access to molecular diagnostics and metabolic treatments for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Panama. The purpose of the study is to describe the relationship between socioeconomic conditions and the use of precision medicine tools, such as methylation analysis and folate receptor alpha autoantibody (FRAT) testing. A qualitative, documentary approach was applied, based on a review of recent scientific literature to characterize the clinical and social context of the issue. The results indicate that folinic acid supplementation is associated with improvements in verbal communication in some children with ASD who present specific metabolic alterations. It is also observed that access to these tests is mainly concentrated in the private sector, due to their cost and limited availability in the public health system. This situation reflects differences in the availability of diagnostics and treatments according to the socioeconomic condition of families. It is concluded that the gradual incorporation of these tools into the public system could expand access to more specific interventions and contribute to a more comprehensive approach to ASD at the national level.
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