Evaluation of Health Outcomes of Speech Delay in Iraqi Autistic Children through A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Delayed speech is a frequent comorbidity in autistic children, with a pervasive influence on communication, socialization, and adaptive behaviors. Despite its clinical relevance, the interconnection between the severity of delayed speech, comorbidities, and long-term outcomes remains unclear, particularly in low-income nations. Aim: This study aimed to 1) characterize the etiology and severity of delayed speech in autistic children, and 2) determine its impact on daily functioning and long-term outcomes. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 70 children with autism (mean age: 5.4 ± 2.1 years) during June 2024 to June 2025, during a 12-month follow-up. The data provided were demographic information, speech delay severity (mild/moderate/severe), and health assessments (PPVT, EVT, ADOS). Results: Our study found illustrated severity; 50% of children presented with moderate speech delay, and 21.4% severe, in which intellectual disability (47.1%), ADHD (40%), and anxiety (31.4%) were prevalent, in which low communication (3.2/5) and social interaction scores (2.8/5) were observed. Conclusion: Speech delay in autism children with autism is multifactorial, with neurological and environmental factors. Our study indicated that early management of comorbidities and parental education can improve long-term impairments.