Prevalence of adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in patients with bipolar affective disorder: A 1-year hospital-based cross-sectional study

Abstract

Context: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) commonly occurs in patients with bipolar affective disorder (BPAD). However, there is a paucity of data concerning the prevalence of adult ADHD in BPAD from India. Aims: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) commonly occurs in patients with bipolar affective disorder (BPAD). However, there is a paucity of data concerning the prevalence of adult ADHD in BPAD from India. Hence, this study aimed to find out the prevalence of adult ADHD in bipolar disorder for better diagnosis and management and tried to find association with clinical and sociodemographic features. Settings and Design: The present 1 year cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Psychiatry, KLES Dr. Prabhakar Kore Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Belagavi from January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2014. Subjects and Methods: A total of 100 patients with diagnosis of BPAD were evaluated for the presence of ADHD. Statistical analysis was done using Epi Info 7 software. Statistical Analysis Used: The data obtained was coded and entered and analyzed using Epi Info 7. Results: Most of the patients were male (64%) and male:female ratio was 1.77:1. The mean age was 37.36 ± 11.02 years and most common age group was 31–40 years (38%). The place of residence was urban area in 53% of the patients, and 72% were Hindus. Education up to secondary schooling was noted in 63% of the patients, and 63% were unemployed. Forty-four percent of the patients belonged Class I socioeconomic status. History of other psychiatric comorbidities was noted in 55% patients, and most of the patients had alcohol dependence syndrome (23%). Conclusions: The frequency of ADHD in patients with BPAD was 15%. The most common clinical presentation was difficulty in memory/concentration and failure to finish the work, difficulty in organization, avoiding tasks requiring sustained mental effort, forgetfulness, and easily distracted were common signs.