P-323 - Developmental changes in children with ADHD

Abstract

Background ADHD is a common diagnosis characterized by inadequate level of attention, excessive activity and impulsivity, accompanied by biochemical and neuroendocrinological changes. In connection with these changes ADHD children can show differences in growth and in development general. Our study compares anthropometric characteristics in boys with ADHD (according to DSM IV) and non-clinical population (n = 250; age: avg = 10,5, 19; SD = 4,8). In contrast to the most of the studies which were done on this topic and work mostly only with BMI, the presented study operates with complex anthropometrical measurements. Differences between medicated (methylphenidate) and non medicated groups were also evaluated. Possible relation between growth and results of psychological tests (WISC-III, attention tests) and questionnaires (CPQ, CTQ) were considered as well. The results show significant difference in anthropometric parameters between children with ADHD and children without the diagnosis. The differences are especially significant in signs of nutrition. It was also found that boys with ADHD have higher percentage of fat, higher value of abdominal circumference and some other differences in physipue from the norm. Children taking medication show lower percentage of body fat and lower BMI. Differences in height were not statistically significant. Relation of anthropometric and psychological parameters was not found. Conclusion The results are in correspondence with previous studies and point not only to significant influence of medication on growth of ADHD children but as well as on other developmental changes connected with this disorder.