ADHD frequency and characteristics in students suffering from learning disabilities

Abstract

Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common disorder, estimated to occur in 4-6% of the adult population. Learning disabilities (LD) are a group of heterogenic disorders that manifest in significant difficulties in acquisition and use of various learning abilities. LD were found in 10-20% of the general population. ADHD and LD share many common dysfunction characteristics in all daily activities. Studies show an overlap of 20-30% between the two disorders, and more psychometric disabilities, as well as a higher comorbidity rate and a lower SES status in adults who suffer from both than from LD alone. Yet, studies dealing with ADHD and LD comorbidity and its implication are few.We wanted to examine ADHD frequency among students diagnosed as suffering from LD, and its correlation with other comorbidities, as well as to evaluate the efficacy of an ADHD screening questionnaire, and to estimate the rate of preliminary ADHD diagnosis and/or treatment in this group.Methods:Population included 100 students, male and female, all aged 18 years old and above, studying in a specific center for LD. All students were diagnosed in the past as suffering from LD. No selection criteria had been administered. Methods were divided: 1) Screening questionnaire 2) ADHD assessment including: a structured interview (SCID), the Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS), the adult ADHD self report scale (ASRS) and Test Of Variables of Attention (TOVA) with and without methylphenidate (MPH) challenge.Results will be presented later