Abstract
Objective: To describe the clinical, socio-demographic, and functional profile of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) referred to a tertiary care center in Kerala, India. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted from records of developmental evaluation clinic over a period of one year. All-consecutive cases the first time diagnosed as ADHD were enrolled. Autism Spectrum Disorder, genetic disorders, and children with sensory impairments were excluded. Clinical profile was based on presenting symptoms, gender, and socio-demographic characteristics; functional status assessed by Conner’s 3 Parent Scale and cognitive status by Intelligence Quotient. Results: ADHD prevalence in a clinically referred sample was 12.7%. Boy to girl ratio was 6:1. The mean age of presentation was 8.2 years (SD 6.09). The most common presenting symptom was hyperactivity and behavioral problems followed by poor scholastic performance and poor memory. The functional status assessment showed major concerns in all six domains - Inattention, Hyperactivity, Learning Problem, Executive Functioning, Aggression, and Peer relation, in the majority of children. Children presenting with ADHD symptoms at a later age (9-12 years) had lower IQ scores than those diagnosed at a younger age. Conclusion: Course of childhood ADHD shows a consistent clinical and functional pattern. Early diagnosis and quantification of difficulties at the outset is suggested, which can help in providing early intervention and is likely to improve long-term outcome in these children.
Highlights
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder of childhood and can profoundly affect the academic achievement, functional well-being, and social interactions of children of all age groups as well as adults [1]
A prevalence of 12.7% of ADHD was observed among the 6-12-year-old children referred to Child Development Centre (CDC) for various issues
Per year around 500-525 children between the age group 612 year present to CDC with various issues out of which 10-15 % are diagnosed with ADHD
Summary
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder of childhood and can profoundly affect the academic achievement, functional well-being, and social interactions of children of all age groups as well as adults [1]. In India, according to a study done in primary school children in Tamil Nadu, the prevalence of ADHD is 11.32% [5]. Because of the high prevalence of ADHD in primary school children, more studies are required to describe associated problems and functional status of these children, especially in the Indian context. The present study is an attempt to describe the socio-demographic, clinical profile and functional status in primary school-aged children (6-12 years) with ADHD referred to as a tertiary care Centre in Kerala, India.
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