Automated volume estimate of the brain's lateral ventricles reveals a persistent association with cognitive performance among stroke survivors.

Mental healthcare is a critical component in the management of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Interests about the availability, accessibility and effectiveness of these services are growing for researchers, parents and communities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries such as South Africa (SA). These interests are heightened by the South African constitutional obligation to provide accessible quality healthcare for all. Access to mental healthcare services is also essential for preserving the legal rights of children with ASD and their families and enabling early diagnosis, effective intervention and improved developmental outcomes. Autism spectrum disorder is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition influenced by genetic and environmental factors. It is characterised by difficulties in emotional regulation, social interaction, communication, repetitive behaviours and restricted interests as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The global prevalence of ASD is estimated at approximately 1 in 54 children, although rates vary significantly across studies and regions. As the global prevalence of ASD continues to rise, access to appropriate and affordable care presents a growing challenge. In low-resource settings, barriers to care remain widespread despite increasing research attention. These barriers may be related to various reasons, including access to mental healthcare services, inadequate healthcare resources and insufficient specialised expertise among providers. Wallace-Watkin et al. reported that families identified limited awareness, a shortage of trained professionals, prolonged waiting times and financial constraints as significant impediments to accessing mental healthcare for children with ASD. Furthermore, Malik-Soni et al. found that clinicians frequently lack the specialised knowledge required to effectively screen, diagnose and refer individuals with ASD.