International Asperger’s Day observed on 18 February

Key facts

• International Asperger’s Day is observed annually on 18 February to raise awareness about the neurodevelopmental condition.
• The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Hans Asperger, an Austrian paediatrician and researcher born in Vienna on 18 February 1906.
• Hans Asperger first described the syndrome in 1944, which is now classified under the broader umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
• The condition is characterised by average intelligence and strong language skills, alongside challenges in social communication and understanding.
• Research indicates that ASD is more commonly diagnosed in males, while females often receive later diagnoses due to less visible symptoms.