The Web Summit Qatar 2025 is showcasing some of the most innovative breakthroughs in technology and healthcare, and among them is a game-changing advancement in autism diagnosis. Dr. Fouad Al-Shaban, Principal Investigator at Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, is leading a pioneering project that utilizes eye-tracking technology to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) with unmatched speed and accuracy.
A Breakthrough in Autism Diagnosis
Dr. Al-Shaban’s research, developed in collaboration with Cleveland Clinic USA over the past ten years, has led to the creation of a diagnostic tool that can detect autism in just four minutes with an accuracy and sensitivity of over 93%.
“This is an objective test that is going to change the whole story of autism diagnosis,” said Dr. Al-Shaban. “Currently, families face waiting times of six months to two years for a diagnosis, and the process requires highly trained professionals. Our device eliminates these challenges, offering a quick, reliable, and accurate diagnosis.”
Impact and Global Demand
The impact of this technology has already been felt, with significant interest worldwide. Dr. Al-Shaban revealed that the device has been showcased for the past two years, and the demand for it is overwhelming.
“Everybody is looking forward to getting the device,” he said. “We are working very hard to commercialize it, and we hope that by the end of this year, it will be available globally.”
The affordability of this groundbreaking device makes it even more accessible:
- The hardware will cost less than $5,000.
- The cost per test will range between $25 to $50, depending on location and provider.
“This is a game-changer in diagnosis,” Dr. Al-Shaban emphasized. “The earlier we diagnose and intervene, the better the outcomes for individuals with autism.”
The Global Challenge of Autism
Autism prevalence has been rising significantly. According to American statistics, 1 in every 33 children born in the U.S. is diagnosed with some form of ASD. In Qatar, research conducted by Dr. Al-Shaban and his team found that 1 in every 87 children develops autism within their first three years of life.
“Autism is a global challenge,” Dr. Al-Shaban noted. “While there is no definitive cure, early intervention makes a significant difference. Our device allows diagnosis even in severe cases as early as the first month of life, and we’ve already tested it on infants as young as four to five months with very high sensitivity.”
A Game-Changing Future
With no definitive cure for autism, early intervention is the key to providing individuals with the best possible outcomes. The eye-tracking device pioneered by Dr. Al-Shaban offers a fast, reliable, and widely accessible solution that has the potential to reshape autism diagnosis worldwide.
“This technology is going to be a game-changer,” he concluded.
As Web Summit Qatar 2025 continues to highlight breakthrough innovations, Dr. Al-Shaban’s work stands as a testament to the power of technology in transforming lives.
📢 Stay tuned for more insights, exclusive interviews, and major highlights from Web Summit Qatar 2025!
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