Adhd u dorosłych to zespół nadpobudliwości psychoruchowej u dorosłych
Epidemiologia

ADHD u dorosłych jest zaburzeniem neurorozwojowym o globalnym rozpowszechnieniu szacowanym na 2,5-6,76% populacji dorosłych, co w 2020 roku odpowiadało około 366,33 milionom osób. Przetrwałe ADHD z początkiem w dzieciństwie dotyczy około 2,58% dorosłych (139,84 mln przypadków). Rozpowszechnienie zmniejsza się z wiekiem, a różnice geograficzne są znaczące – od 1,4% w krajach o niskim dochodzie do 25,66% w regionie Azji Południowo-Wschodniej. W USA, gdzie dane są najlepiej udokumentowane, ADHD u dorosłych dotyczy około 4,4-6,0% populacji w wieku 18-44 lat, z ponad połową diagnoz postawionych dopiero po 18. roku życia. Różnice płciowe są mniej wyraźne niż u dzieci (mężczyźni 5,4%, kobiety 3,2%), a podtyp mieszany stanowi 50-75% przypadków. ADHD u dorosłych często współwystępuje z innymi zaburzeniami psychicznymi (około 80% z co najmniej jednym zaburzeniem współistniejącym), co komplikuje diagnostykę i leczenie.

Epidemiologia ADHD u dorosłych

Adhd u dorosłych to zespół nadpobudliwości psychoruchowej u dorosłych jest zaburzeniem neurorozwojowym, które w przeszłości było postrzegane głównie jako schorzenie wieku dziecięcego. Obecnie wiemy, że może ono utrzymywać się przez całe życie, znacząco wpływając na funkcjonowanie osób dorosłych w sferze zawodowej, społecznej i osobistej.12

Rozpowszechnienie globalne ADHD u dorosłych

Szacunki dotyczące rozpowszechnienia ADHD u dorosłych na świecie wykazują pewne zróżnicowanie w zależności od metodologii badań, zastosowanych kryteriów diagnostycznych oraz regionu geograficznego.1 Globalne dane wskazują, że:

  • Ogólne rozpowszechnienie ADHD u dorosłych wynosi około 2,5-6,76% populacji dorosłych12
  • W 2020 roku szacowano, że objawowe ADHD u dorosłych dotyka 6,76% populacji światowej, co przekłada się na około 366,33 miliona dorosłych1
  • Z kolei przetrwałe ADHD (z początkiem w dzieciństwie) dotyczy około 2,58% dorosłych na świecie, co odpowiada 139,84 milionom przypadków1

Warto zwrócić uwagę, że rozpowszechnienie ADHD u dorosłych zmniejsza się wraz z wiekiem.1 Badania sugerują również, że znaczna część osób z ADHD w dorosłości nie miała tej diagnozy w dzieciństwie, co wskazuje na istnienie pewnej grupy osób z początkiem choroby w dorosłości.12

Różnice geograficzne w rozpowszechnieniu ADHD u dorosłych

Badania epidemiologiczne wskazują na znaczące różnice w rozpowszechnieniu ADHD u dorosłych w zależności od regionu geograficznego:1

  • Kraje o wysokim dochodzie: około 4,2% populacji dorosłych1
  • Kraje o średnio-wysokim dochodzie: około 3,0% populacji dorosłych1
  • Kraje o niskim/średnio-niskim dochodzie: około 1,4% populacji dorosłych1
  • Region Azji Południowo-Wschodniej: około 25,66%1
  • Region Zachodniego Pacyfiku: około 9,67%1
  • Region obu Ameryk: około 6,06%1
  • Region Bliskiego Wschodu i Afryki Północnej: około 13,5%1

Te różnice mogą wynikać zarówno z rzeczywistych odmienności w występowaniu zaburzenia, jak i z różnic metodologicznych w badaniach, różnych podejść diagnostycznych oraz świadomości problemu w poszczególnych regionach świata.1

Rozpowszechnienie ADHD u dorosłych w Stanach Zjednoczonych

Stany Zjednoczone posiadają najlepiej udokumentowane dane epidemiologiczne dotyczące ADHD u dorosłych:

  • Według Narodowego Badania Chorób Współistniejących (NCS-R), rozpowszechnienie ADHD u dorosłych w wieku 18-44 lat wynosi około 4,4%1
  • Według nowszych badań z 2023 roku, około 15,5 miliona amerykańskich dorosłych (6,0%) ma obecnie diagnozę ADHD1
  • Ponad połowa (55,9%) dorosłych z ADHD otrzymała swoją diagnozę dopiero w dorosłości (po 18. roku życia)1
  • Około 50,4% dorosłych z ADHD otrzymało leki na tę chorobę w ciągu ostatnich 12 miesięcy1

Badania wskazują również na istotne różnice w rozpowszechnieniu ADHD u dorosłych w zależności od pochodzenia etnicznego w USA:1

  • Nie-latynoscy biali: 5,4%
  • Osoby pochodzenia latynoskiego: 2,1%
  • Osoby czarnoskóre: 1,9%
  • Inne grupy etniczne: 3,6%

Różnice płciowe w rozpowszechnieniu ADHD u dorosłych

W odróżnieniu od ADHD u dzieci, gdzie występuje wyraźna przewaga chłopców nad dziewczętami (stosunek 3-5:1), różnice płciowe u dorosłych są mniej wyraźne:12

  • Mężczyźni: około 5,4% populacji dorosłych mężczyzn1
  • Kobiety: około 3,2% populacji dorosłych kobiet1
  • Stosunek mężczyzn do kobiet w ADHD u dorosłych wynosi blisko 1,7:1, co jest znacznie mniejszą różnicą niż u dzieci1

Niektóre badania sugerują, że różnice płciowe mogą być związane z odmienną manifestacją objawów – kobiety częściej prezentują objawy nieuwagi, które mogą być trudniejsze do rozpoznania, podczas gdy mężczyźni częściej przejawiają objawy nadpobudliwości i impulsywności.1

Przetrwałość ADHD z dzieciństwa do dorosłości

Istnieje znaczna zmienność w szacunkach dotyczących przetrwałości ADHD z dzieciństwa do dorosłości:1

  • Około 15-65% dzieci z ADHD nadal spełnia kryteria diagnostyczne w dorosłości1
  • Według niektórych badań, tylko około 1 na 6 dzieci z ADHD utrzymuje pełną diagnozę z utrzymującymi się objawami w dorosłości1
  • Większość dzieci z ADHD będzie nadal doświadczać objawów rezydualnych, nawet jeśli nie spełniają pełnych kryteriów diagnostycznych1

Warto zauważyć, że objawy hiperkinetyczne mają tendencję do zmniejszania się z wiekiem, podczas gdy objawy nieuwagi często utrzymują się na podobnym poziomie w dorosłości.1

Typy ADHD u dorosłych i ich rozpowszechnienie

ADHD u dorosłych, podobnie jak u dzieci, dzieli się na trzy podstawowe podtypy:1

  • Podtyp z przewagą nieuwagi: stanowi około 20-30% przypadków
  • Podtyp z przewagą nadpobudliwości-impulsywności: stanowi około 15% przypadków
  • Podtyp mieszany (kombinowany): stanowi około 50-75% przypadków

W regionie Bliskiego Wschodu i Afryki Północnej badania wskazują na następujący rozkład podtypów:1

  • Podtyp z przewagą nieuwagi: 46,7% wszystkich przypadków
  • Podtyp z przewagą nadpobudliwości/impulsywności: 33,7% wszystkich przypadków
  • Podtyp mieszany: 20,6% wszystkich przypadków

Trendy czasowe w rozpowszechnieniu ADHD u dorosłych

Dane epidemiologiczne wskazują na wyraźny wzrost rozpoznawalności i diagnozowalności ADHD u dorosłych w ostatnich dekadach:12

  • Przed 1970 rokiem diagnoza ADHD u dorosłych była rzadkością1
  • W latach 2007-2016 częstość diagnozowania ADHD u dorosłych w USA wzrosła ponad dwukrotnie – z 0,43% do 0,96%1
  • Obecnie diagnoza ADHD u dorosłych jest cztery razy częstsza niż u dzieci1

Ten wzrost może wynikać z wielu czynników, takich jak:1

  • Większa świadomość istnienia ADHD u dorosłych wśród lekarzy i społeczeństwa
  • Zmiana kryteriów diagnostycznych, które lepiej uwzględniają specyfikę objawów u dorosłych
  • Większa gotowość do poszukiwania pomocy przez osoby dorosłe z objawami ADHD
  • Lepsza dostępność narzędzi diagnostycznych dla dorosłych

Problem niedodiagnozowania ADHD u dorosłych

Pomimo wzrostu rozpoznawalności, ADHD u dorosłych pozostaje w znacznym stopniu niedodiagnozowane:12

  • Wiele osób dorosłych z ADHD nie jest zdiagnozowanych i nie otrzymuje odpowiedniego leczenia1
  • Problem ten dotyczy szczególnie kobiet, u których objawy mogą być mniej widoczne lub mylone z innymi zaburzeniami1
  • Badania z Tajwanu wykazały wyraźne niedodiagnozowanie ADHD u dorosłych, zwłaszcza wśród kobiet1

Problem niedodiagnozowania może prowadzić do niepotrzebnego cierpienia, trudności funkcjonalnych oraz rozwoju zaburzeń współistniejących u osób dorosłych z nieleczonym ADHD.1

Współwystępujące zaburzenia z ADHD u dorosłych

ADHD u dorosłych rzadko występuje jako izolowane zaburzenie. Badania epidemiologiczne wskazują na wysokie wskaźniki współwystępowania z innymi problemami psychicznymi:12

Wysokie wskaźniki współwystępowania innych zaburzeń z ADHD u dorosłych komplikują proces diagnostyczny i terapeutyczny, co dodatkowo przyczynia się do problemu niedodiagnozowania.1

Obciążenie społeczne i ekonomiczne ADHD u dorosłych

ADHD u dorosłych wiąże się ze znacznym obciążeniem zarówno dla jednostek, jak i dla społeczeństwa:12

  • Osoby dorosłe z ADHD doświadczają istotnych trudności w:12
    • Funkcjonowaniu zawodowym (niższa wydajność, częstsze zmiany pracy)
    • Edukacji (niższe osiągnięcia akademickie)
    • Relacjach interpersonalnych (wyższe wskaźniki rozwodów i separacji)
    • Samoocenie i ogólnej jakości życia
  • ADHD u dorosłych wiąże się również z:12
    • Większym ryzykiem wypadków drogowych i urazów
    • Wyższymi wskaźnikami zachowań przestępczych
    • Zwiększonym ryzykiem zachowań samobójczych
    • Wyższą śmiertelnością, głównie z powodu nienaturalnych przyczyn

Obciążenie ekonomiczne związane z ADHD u dorosłych jest znaczące:12

  • Roczne koszty ADHD w USA szacuje się na 143-266 miliardów dolarów1
  • W Ameryce Północnej roczne koszty związane z ADHD na osobę wynoszą od 1028 do 18158 dolarów1
  • W Europie szacuje się te koszty na 832-20539 dolarów rocznie na osobę1

Dostęp do leczenia ADHD u dorosłych

Pomimo znacznego rozpowszechnienia i obciążenia związanego z ADHD u dorosłych, dostęp do leczenia pozostaje ograniczony:12

  • Około 50,4% dorosłych z ADHD w USA otrzymało leki na tę chorobę w ciągu ostatnich 12 miesięcy1
  • 33,4% dorosłych z ADHD przyjmowało leki stymulujące1
  • 5,9% dorosłych z ADHD przyjmowało leki niestymulujące1
  • Wśród osób przyjmujących leki stymulujące, 71,5% zgłaszało trudności z realizacją recept z powodu niedostępności leków1

W ostatnich latach obserwuje się wzrost wykorzystania telemedycyny w leczeniu ADHD u dorosłych:1

  • Około 46% dorosłych z ADHD korzystało kiedykolwiek z usług telemedycznych w związku z tym zaburzeniem1
  • Od początku pandemii COVID-19 (od marca 2020), około 30,5% dorosłych z ADHD korzystało z telemedycyny w celu uzyskania recepty na leki1
  • Podobny odsetek (30,8%) korzystał z telemedycyny w celu otrzymania poradnictwa lub terapii ADHD1

ADHD u dorosłych w grupach specjalnych

ADHD u osób wojskowych

Badania epidemiologiczne prowadzone wśród personelu wojskowego USA dostarczają interesujących danych na temat ADHD u dorosłych w tej szczególnej populacji:12

  • W latach 2014-2018 roczne rozpowszechnienie ADHD wśród amerykańskiego personelu wojskowego zmniejszyło się z 3,9% do 2,8%1
  • Jest to trend odwrotny do obserwowanego w populacji ogólnej USA, gdzie rozpowszechnienie ADHD u dorosłych wzrasta1
  • Wyższe wskaźniki ADHD obserwowano u:1
    • Osób z niższym wykształceniem
    • Osób rozwiedzionych lub owdowiałych
    • Nie-latynoskich białych
    • Członków Armii
    • Wyższych rangą wojskowych
    • Osób pracujących w zawodach związanych z ochroną zdrowia
  • 60,2% osób z ADHD w wojsku otrzymywało leki1

Warto zauważyć, że w przeciwieństwie do populacji cywilnej, w wojsku USA częstość ADHD u kobiet i mężczyzn jest podobna, co może sugerować, że rzeczywiste rozpowszechnienie ADHD wśród płci może być bardziej zbliżone niż wcześniej sądzono, gdy osoby wykonują porównywalne zawody.1

ADHD u studentów

Badania z Zjednoczonych Emiratów Arabskich dostarczają danych na temat ADHD wśród młodych dorosłych studentów:12

  • Około 34,7% młodych dorosłych w wieku 18-20 lat zgłaszało objawy sugerujące prawdopodobne ADHD1
  • Około 35,6% badanych zgłaszało sześć lub więcej objawów nieuwagi lub nadpobudliwości1
  • Zaobserwowano znaczący związek między obecnością objawów ADHD a niższymi wynikami w nauce1
  • Badanie wykazało wysoki wskaźnik prawdopodobnego ADHD wśród młodych dorosłych studiujących w ZEA, szczególnie wśród kobiet1

Wyniki te sugerują, że ADHD może być istotnym, ale niedoszacowanym problemem wśród studentów, co może mieć znaczący wpływ na ich osiągnięcia akademickie.1

Wyzwania metodologiczne w badaniach epidemiologicznych ADHD u dorosłych

Badania epidemiologiczne ADHD u dorosłych napotykają na szereg wyzwań metodologicznych, które mogą wpływać na szacunki rozpowszechnienia:12

  • Różne metodologie badawcze dają różne szacunki:1
    • Badania rejestrowe: 1,6%
    • Badania ankietowe: 5,0%
    • Badania kliniczne jednofazowe: 4,2%
    • Badania kliniczne dwufazowe: 4,8%
  • Różne kryteria diagnostyczne (DSM versus ICD) dają różne szacunki rozpowszechnienia1
  • Istnieją znaczące różnice w rozpowszechnieniu ADHD diagnozowanego za pomocą różnych metod:1
    • 2,18% przy użyciu badań diagnostycznych z walidowanymi skalami
    • 0,23% przy opieraniu się na klinicznej diagnozie ADHD
    • 0,09% przy opieraniu się na wskaźnikach leczenia ADHD

Brak uniwersalnej strategii diagnostycznej dla ADHD u dorosłych stanowi istotne wyzwanie dla badań epidemiologicznych i może prowadzić do zmiennych szacunków rozpowszechnienia na całym świecie.1

Podsumowanie głównych trendów epidemiologicznych ADHD u dorosłych

Na podstawie dostępnych danych można wyróżnić następujące główne trendy epidemiologiczne dotyczące ADHD u dorosłych:123

  • Globalne rozpowszechnienie ADHD u dorosłych wynosi około 2,5-6,76%, w zależności od metodologii badań1
  • Rozpowszechnienie ADHD zmniejsza się wraz z wiekiem1
  • Obserwuje się wzrost diagnozowania ADHD u dorosłych w ostatnich dekadach1
  • Różnice płciowe w rozpowszechnieniu ADHD są mniej wyraźne u dorosłych niż u dzieci1
  • Istnieją znaczące różnice geograficzne w rozpowszechnieniu ADHD u dorosłych1
  • ADHD u dorosłych często współwystępuje z innymi zaburzeniami psychicznymi1
  • Znaczna część dorosłych z ADHD otrzymuje diagnozę dopiero w dorosłości1
  • ADHD u dorosłych pozostaje w znacznym stopniu niedodiagnozowane1

Pomimo rosnącej świadomości i lepszego zrozumienia ADHD u dorosłych, nadal istnieje potrzeba standaryzacji metod badawczych, poprawy narzędzi diagnostycznych oraz zwiększenia dostępności leczenia dla osób dorosłych z tym zaburzeniem.12

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  1. 09.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Adult ADHD: Symptoms, Statistics, Causes, Types, and Treatments
    https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/adhd-adults
    Adult ADHD epidemiology […] One large survey found that 4.4% of adults ages 18-44 in the U.S. have ADHD. About 62% are men and 38% are women, according to the survey. The ethnic group most likely to have a diagnosis of ADHD is non-Hispanic White people. The rate of ADHD among other groups is: […] […] 2.1% for Hispanic adults […] […] 1.9% for Black adults […] […] 3.6% for other ethnic groups (The survey did not further break down this category.)
  • #1 Prevalence of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): systematic review and meta-analysis | European Psychiatry | Cambridge Core
    https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/european-psychiatry/article/prevalence-of-attentiondeficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-systematic-review-and-metaanalysis/CBC560705C72C55848087632C13DBD37
    The estimates of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) prevalence across various studies are significantly variable, contributing to uncertainty in ADHD prevalence estimation. […] A few meta-analyses of epidemiological data on adult ADHD have been published; however, Simon et al. published the first meta-analysis in 2009, estimating the prevalence of ADHD in adulthood at 2.5% (95% CI 2.1-3.1). […] Song et al. assessed the global prevalence of adult ADHD in the general population through a systematic review and meta-analysis. The prevalence of persistent adult ADHD was 2.58%, and that of symptomatic adult ADHD was 6.76%. […] Variations in prevalence were also confirmed in the World Mental Health Surveys, where adult ADHD prevalence averaged 2.8% across surveys and was higher in high (3.6%)- and upper-middle (3.0%)- than low-/lower-middle (1.4%)-income countries.
  • #1 The prevalence of adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A global systematic review and meta-analysis
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7916320/
    The prevalence of adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has recently attracted much attention, however, an up-to-date estimation on the prevalence of adult ADHD is lacking. In this study, we aimed to assess the global prevalence of adult ADHD in the general population through a systematic review and meta-analysis. The prevalence of persistent adult ADHD (with a childhood onset) and symptomatic adult ADHD (regardless of a childhood onset) both decreased with advancing age. By adjusting for the global demographic structure in 2020, the prevalence of persistent adult ADHD was 2.58% and that of symptomatic adult ADHD was 6.76%, translating to 139.84 million and 366.33 million affected adults in 2020 globally. This study provides an up-to-date estimation of the global prevalence of both persistent and symptomatic adult ADHD. A well-defined strategy for diagnosing adult ADHD and large-scale investigations on the epidemiology of adult ADHD are needed. In 2020, the prevalence of persistent adult ADHD was 2.58%, and that of symptomatic adult ADHD was 6.76%, equivalent to 139.84 million and 366.33 million affected cases globally.
  • #1 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults: Epidemiology, clinical features, assessment, and diagnosis – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-in-adults-epidemiology-clinical-features-assessment-and-diagnosis/print
    Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), one of the most common neuropsychiatric disorders of childhood and adolescence, often persists into adulthood. Studies have found that a majority of people diagnosed with ADHD in childhood continue to meet criteria for the disorder as adults. More recent studies have found that a substantial proportion of those with adult ADHD did not have the condition in childhood. ADHD in adulthood is associated with significant impairment in occupational, academic, and social functioning. […] ADHD in adults is characterized by symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and restlessness, resulting in functional impairment. Impairment in executive function is common. Emotional dysregulation is often seen in these patients. […] This topic discusses the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, course, assessment, and diagnosis of ADHD in adults.
  • #1 Cross-national prevalence and correlates of adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder | The British Journal of Psychiatry | Cambridge Core
    https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/the-british-journal-of-psychiatry/article/crossnational-prevalence-and-correlates-of-adult-attentiondeficit-hyperactivity-disorder/43819B490B72F072154DBDEAFE9807E8
    Little is known about the epidemiology of adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). […] To estimate the prevalence and correlates of DSM-IV adult ADHD in the World Health Organization World Mental Health Survey Initiative. […] Estimates of ADHD prevalence averaged 3.4% (range 1.2-7.3%), with lower prevalence in lower-income countries (1.9%) compared with higher-income countries (4.2%). Adult ADHD often co-occurs with other DSM-IV disorders and is associated with considerable role disability. […] Adult ADHD should be considered more seriously in future epidemiological and clinical studies than is currently the case. […] The estimated prevalence of DSM-IV adult ADHD in the total sample based on multiple imputation, using a combination of directly interviewed cases from the clinical reappraisal sample in the USA and multiply imputed cases in the remainder of the samples, was 3.4%.
  • #1
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12402-016-0208-3
    We previously reported on the cross-national epidemiology of ADHD from the first 10 countries in the WHO World Mental Health (WMH) Surveys. The current report expands those previous findings to the 20 nationally or regionally representative WMH surveys that have now collected data on adult ADHD. Current DSM-IV/CIDI adult ADHD prevalence averaged 2.8% across surveys and was higher in high (3.6%)- and upper-middle (3.0%)- than low-/lower-middle (1.4%)-income countries. Adult ADHD was significantly related to being male, previously married, and low education. Adult ADHD was highly comorbid with DSM-IV/CIDI anxiety, mood, behavior, and substance disorders and significantly associated with role impairments (days out of role, impaired cognition, and social interactions) when controlling for comorbidities. Treatment seeking was low in all countries and targeted largely to comorbid conditions rather than to ADHD. These results show that adult ADHD is prevalent, seriously impairing, and highly comorbid but vastly under-recognized and undertreated across countries and cultures.
  • #1 Epidemiology of attention deficit hyperactive disorder – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epidemiology_of_attention_deficit_hyperactive_disorder
    Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulty focusing attention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior. ADHD is estimated to affect about 6 to 7 percent of people aged 18 and under when diagnosed via the DSM-IV criteria. However, these estimates may be inaccurate as females tend to have fewer symptoms, as identified in the DSM-IV, and thus tend to be under-diagnosed due to these sex differences in predicting ADHD. When diagnosed via the ICD-10 criteria, hyperkinetic disorder (the ICD-10 term for severe ADHD) gives rates between 1 and 2 percent in this age group. […] The estimated prevalence of adult ADHD is 25.66% in the South-East Asia Region and 9.67% in the Western Pacific Region. […] Utilizing data from the WHO World Mental Health (WMH) Surveys, it is estimated that, in China (Shenzhen), the prevalence of childhood ADHD is 0.7% and the prevalence of adult ADHD is 1.8%.
  • #1 Epidemiology of attention deficit hyperactive disorder – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epidemiology_of_attention_deficit_hyperactive_disorder
    The estimated prevalence of childhood ADHD in India is 7.1%, with individual study estimates ranging from 1.30% to 28.9%. […] The estimated prevalence of ADHD in Arab countries among schoolchildren (ages 6 to 12 years) ranges between 7.8 and 11.1%, while it was higher, at 16%, in studies that included younger children (ages 3 to 15 years). […] The prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder was found to be 3.4% overall in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, among primary school students between the years of 2015 and 2016. […] A systemic review of studies carried out in various Iranian cities between January 1990 and December 2018 revealed a prevalence of ADHD that ranged from 3.17% to 17.3%. […] The estimated prevalence of symptomatic adult ADHD in the Region of the Americas (North America and South America) is 6.06%. The estimated prevalence of childhood ADHD in South America is 11.8%. […] Rates of ADHD diagnosis and treatment have increased in both the United Kingdom and the United States since the 1970s. It is believed that the changes to the diagnostic criteria in 2013 from the DSM 4TR to the DSM 5 will increase the number of people with ADHD especially among adults.
  • #1 Prevalence of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children, adolescents and adults in the Middle East and North Africa region: a systematic review and meta-analysis | BMJ Open
    https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/14/1/e078849
    The overall prevalence of ADHD was 10.3% (95% CI 0.081 to 0.129). […] The prevalence in adults was 13.5 and 10.1 in children and adolescents. […] Males exhibited significantly higher prevalence compared with females as these were 11.1% and 7%, respectively. […] The overall prevalence of ADHD was high in the MENA region. It is crucial to allocate more attention and resources towards the prevention and treatment of ADHD in children, adolescents and adults within the region. […] The pooled prevalence of ADHD in adults (included four studies) was 13.5% (95% CI 8 to 20). […] The pooled prevalence of ADHD in children and adolescents (included 59 studies) was 10.1% (95% CI 7 to 12). […] The findings reveal significant variability in ADHD estimated prevalence rates, highlighting the importance of considering regional differences.
  • #1 BackgroundMethodsResultsConclusionsMETHODSSearch strategy and selection criteriaData extraction and quality assessmentStatistical analysisOverall pooled prevalence of adult ADHDSubgroup meta-analysis of adult ADHD prevalenceMeta-regression of adult ADHD p
    https://www.jogh.org/documents/2021/jogh-11-04009.htm
    Thereafter, more epidemiological investigations on adult ADHD have become available, highlighting the need for an updated estimation of adult ADHD prevalence worldwide. […] Our objectives were to 1) assess the global prevalence of adult ADHD; 2) explore the potential associated factors of adult ADHD; 3) estimate the global number of people affected by adult ADHD in 2020. […] The pooled prevalence of persistent adult ADHD was relatively higher in LMICs than in HICs and that of symptomatic adult ADHD varied across WHO regions. […] In 2020, the prevalence of persistent adult ADHD was 2.58%, and that of symptomatic adult ADHD was 6.76%, equivalent to 139.84 million and 366.33 million affected cases globally. […] The lack of internationally acknowledged diagnosis would lead to altered prevalence estimates of adult ADHD across the world. […] Development of a universal diagnostic strategy to detect adult ADHD symptoms is greatly needed for both clinical and public health purposes.
  • #1 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
    https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd
    Based on diagnostic interview data from the National Comorbidity Survey Replication (NCS-R), Figure 4 shows the estimated prevalence of adults aged 18 to 44 years with a current diagnosis of ADHD. The overall prevalence of current adult ADHD is 4.4%. Prevalence was higher for males (5.4%) versus females (3.2%). The non-Hispanic white group (5.4%) had a higher prevalence than all other race/ethnicity groups. […] The estimated lifetime prevalence of ADHD in U.S. adults aged 18 to 44 years was 8.1%.
  • #1 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Diagnosis, Treatment, and Telehealth Use in Adults — National Center for Health Statistics Rapid Surveys System, United States, October–November 2023 | MMWR
    https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7340a1.htm
    In 2023, an estimated 15.5 million U.S. adults had an ADHD diagnosis, approximately one half of whom received their diagnosis in adulthood. […] Approximately one half of adults with ADHD have ever used telehealth for ADHD services. […] ADHD affects many adults. Information on diagnosis and treatment helps the development of clinical care guidelines and regulatory decision-making around medication shortages and telehealth for ADHD. […] An estimated 6.0% of adults had a current ADHD diagnosis, equivalent to one in 16, or approximately 15.5 million U.S. adults. […] More than one half of adults with ADHD (55.9%) received their diagnosis during adulthood (age 18 years). […] Approximately one half of adults (50.4%) with ADHD were prescribed medication to treat their ADHD during the previous 12 months.
  • #1 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Background, Pathophysiology, Epidemiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/289350-overview
    In children, ADHD is 35 times more common in boys than in girls. Some studies report an incidence ratio of as high as 5:1. The predominantly inattentive type of ADHD is found more commonly in girls than in boys. […] In adults, the sex ratio is closer to even. […] The prevalence rate in adults has been estimated at 27%. The prevalence rate of ADHD in the adult general population is 45%.
  • #1 Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: diagnostic criteria, epidemiology, risk factors and evaluation in youth – Cabral – Translational Pediatrics
    https://tp.amegroups.org/article/view/30808/28327
    There are some gender differences to consider when diagnosing ADHD with more males being diagnosed than females (ratio 2:1). Males are more likely to manifest with hyperactive/impulsive symptoms, while females are more likely to have inattentive symptoms. With the extended age-of-onset criterion, prevalence of females with ADHD can potentially increase. Recent evidence suggests that notably increased emotional or behavioral problems must be seen in girls with ADHD before they meet criteria for the disorder. Additionally, parental perceptions of ADHD symptoms can differ based on the patients gender. […] Racial/ethnic disparities exist in children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD. The prevalence observed in the 20-year period identified 12.8% of non-Hispanic black, 12% of non-Hispanic white, and 6.1% of Hispanic youth diagnosed with ADHD. These rates are similar to recent reports from the CDC. When controlling for socio-demographics, ADHD symptoms, and comorbidities, African-American and Latino children were less likely to be diagnosed with ADHD and be medicated. Future screening materials and diagnostic criteria may need to account for these gender and racial/ethnic differences.
  • #1 Adult Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (aADHD)
    https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/adult-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder
    Although normally associated with children, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder can also persist in adulthood, presenting challenges to both patients and clinicians. […] There is growing evidence that symptoms of ADHD can persist into adulthood and can cause significant impairments in social, academic, and occupational functioning. […] Emerging evidence indicates that ADHD symptoms may persist into adulthood in approximately 15% to 65% of children with ADHD. […] Additionally, there is new evidence to suggest that adult ADHD (aADHD) is not just a continuation of childhood onset ADHD (cADHD), as many individuals do not have a history of this disorder in childhood. […] A meta-analysis evaluating the risk markers that predicted the persistence of ADHD from childhood into adulthood found that the severity of ADHD, treatment for ADHD, comorbid conduct disorder, and comorbid major depressive disorder emerged as predictors for childhood ADHD persisting into adulthood.
  • #1 Azthena logo with the word Azthena
    https://www.news-medical.net/health/ADHD-Epidemiology.aspx
    Children with ADHD appear to be at a higher risk of developing conduct and substance abuse problems in adolescence and adulthood in comparison to children who are not affected. […] For this reason, the prevalence is higher in children and lower in adults. […] Approximately 1 in 6 children with ADHD will maintain the full diagnosis with persistent symptoms into adulthood, and most children will continue to experience residual symptoms. […] ADHD is 3-5 times more common in young boys than girls. However, the sex ratio tends to approach equilibrium in adulthood as the symptoms of more boys than girls usually improve.
  • #1 Epidemiology of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder | IntechOpen
    https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/48896
    Although variation in prevalence has been shown to be associated with geographic origin, this trend has been refuted in recent times. […] It has been argued that the variability in ADHD/HD prevalence figures obtained from different countries in different continents may be best explained by the use of different case definitions and methodologies. […] ADHD usually occurs more in boys than in girls. The male-to-female ratio ranges between 3:1 and 4:1. […] There are conflicting data that a child with ADHD will also have the disorder as an adult. For instance, approximately 30-80% of children with ADHD have the disorder as adults. […] Hyperactive symptoms tend to decrease with age. […] However, inattentive symptoms do not appear to have a similar developmental advantage and tend to remain the same into adulthood.
  • #1 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) | Doctor
    https://patient.info/doctor/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-pro
    Globally, ADHD is estimated to affect 5% of children. In the UK, the prevalence of ADHD in adults is estimated at 3% to 4%. […] ADHD is most often diagnosed in children aged 3-7 years, but it may not be recognised until later in childhood and sometimes not until adulthood. […] ADHD is more commonly diagnosed in boys than in girls. The ratio estimates vary but in the UK is thought to be 25:1. However, this difference may be due to boys presenting more often with disruptive behaviour that prompts referral, whereas girls more often have the inattentive subtype and have lower comorbidity with oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder. […] Of the three subtypes of ADHD: Inattentive subtype accounts for 20-30% of cases. Hyperactive-impulsive subtype accounts for about 15% of cases. Combined subtype accounts for 50-75% of cases. […] The NICE guideline notes that girls and women are more likely to be mis-diagnosed with another mental health condition or neurodevelopmental disorder.
  • #1 Prevalence of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children, adolescents and adults in the Middle East and North Africa region: a systematic review and meta-analysis | BMJ Open
    https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/14/1/e078849
    The predominantly attention deficit (46.7% of total prevalence) was the most prevalent subtype of ADHD followed by hyperactivity/impulsivity type (33.7% of total prevalence) and combined type (20.6% of total prevalence). […] Overall, the prevalence of ADHD (10.3%) was high in both children and adolescents (10.1%) and adults (13.5%), being significantly higher among males compared with females.
  • #1 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder
    Rates of diagnosis and treatment have increased in both the United Kingdom and the United States since the 1970s. Prior to 1970, it was rare for children to be diagnosed with ADHD, while in the 1970s rates were about 1%. This is believed to be primarily due to changes in how the condition is diagnosed and how readily people are willing to treat it with medications rather than a true change in incidence. […] Despite showing a higher frequency of symptoms associated with ADHD, non-White children in the US are less likely than White children to be diagnosed or treated for ADHD, a finding that is often explained by bias among health professionals, as well as parents who may be reluctant to acknowledge that their child has ADHD. […] A 2024 study in CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report reports around 15.5 million U.S. adults have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, with many facing challenges in accessing treatment.
  • #1 ADHD: Why Diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is Rising  | Brown University Health
    https://www.lifespan.org/be-well/adhd-why-diagnosis-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-rising
    ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a common condition that has steadily been on the increase in both children and adults. […] There has been a notable increase in ADHD prevalence in both children and adults. […] While typically associated with children, ADHD and its symptoms can continue into adulthood. In fact, some individuals may receive their first ADHD diagnosis as an adult. […] It is estimated that 10.5 million American adults are living with ADHD. A study published in JAMA, reported that diagnosis of ADHD in adults is now four times that of children, and its prevalence more than doubled between 2007 and 2016, from .43 percent to .96 percent. However, other studies suggest even higher rates, ranging from 2.5 percent to 4.4 percent, with more men diagnosed than women. Some researchers suggest that ADHD may be underdiagnosed in adults as well.
  • #1 Epidemiology of Treated Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) across the Lifespan in Taiwan: A Nationwide Population-Based Longitudinal Study | PLOS One
    https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0095014
    There may be under-diagnosis and under-treatment of ADHD, especially among females and adults. […] The overall male-to-female ratios of the treated prevalence and incidence of ADHD were 3.85 and 2.95, respectively. […] Male-to-female ratios of treated prevalence ranged from 1.46 to 5.52 before age 25-30 years, but fell below 1 thereafter. […] Male-to-female ratios of treated incidence ranged from 1.46 to 3.47 before age 25-30 years, but fell below 1 thereafter. […] Our study is one of the few to explore longitudinal trends in the treated prevalence and incidence of healthcare-seeking ADHD patients across the lifespan, using nationwide datasets. […] The unique findings of this study were that there may be an under-diagnosis and under-treatment of ADHD, especially among females and adults.
  • #1 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Epidemiology, Treatment and Prevention – Nova Science Publishers
    https://novapublishers.com/shop/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-epidemiology-treatment-and-prevention/
    Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder with underlying brain anatomical and functional measures, as well as familial/genetic factors that are major foci of neuropsychiatric research. […] Traditionally, ADHD is regarded as a childhood disorder, but it is now clear that ADHD affects both children and adults. […] Many adults with ADHD are undiagnosed and untreated. Thus, the negative outcomes reported by most follow-up studies may be a consequence of untreated symptoms. […] The diagnosis of ADHD is broad and heterogeneous, with multiple causes being of neurological, paediatric and psycho-social nature.
  • #1 Adult Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (aADHD)
    https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/adult-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder
    A meta-analysis by Simon et al, found the conservative pooled prevalence rate for adult ADHD (aADHD) to be 2.5%. […] This study also found that the proportion of individuals with ADHD decreases with age, and the prevalence rates were equal among men and women. […] Adult ADHD results in significant impairments in the individuals personal, social, and professional life. […] Individuals with aADHD tend to have poor self-esteem and reduced quality of interpersonal and professional relationships. […] The overall national annual incremental costs of ADHD ranges from $143 to $266 billion. […] Approximately 80% of aADHD cases present with at least 1 lifetime psychiatric comorbidity. […] The National Comorbidity Survey found that aADHD was significantly comorbid with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, and intermittent explosive disorder.
  • #1 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults – Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment | BMJ Best Practice
    https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-gb/814
    Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common adult disorder, thought to be persistence of childhood ADHD. […] About 75% of adults with ADHD will have at least one other mental health disorder, often anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, or substance use disorders. There is also an association with autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dyspraxia. […] Comorbid disorders are present in more than 75% of adults with ADHD. […] ADHD has a chronic course with symptoms that begin in early childhood but often persist into adult life. […] Diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood requires ancillary information supporting onset of symptoms in childhood (before 12 years of age). […] Another key element of the definition is that symptoms manifest in two or more settings, for example both at home and in work.
  • #1 Burden of ADHD | ADHD Institute
    https://adhd-institute.com/burden-of-adhd
    ADHD is known to persist across the lifespan and affects people of all ages. ADHD prevalence rates vary between children, adolescents and adults […] The majority of adults with ADHD have a diagnosed or undiagnosed psychiatric comorbidity, which can complicate the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. […] ADHD can have a significant social impact on affected individuals lives, causing disruption at school, work, and in relationships. ADHD can also be associated with substantial economic burden for the individual, their family and societal healthcare services. […] The prevalence and effects of adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) on the performance of workers: results from the WHO World Mental Health Survey Initiative.
  • #1 Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350878
    Different types of health care professionals may diagnose and supervise treatment for ADHD. Seek a provider who has training and experience in caring for adults with ADHD. […] ADHD can make life difficult for you. ADHD has been linked to poor school or work performance, unemployment, financial problems, trouble with the law, alcohol or other substance misuse, frequent car accidents or other accidents, unstable relationships, poor physical and mental health, poor self-image, and suicide attempts. […] Although ADHD doesn’t cause other psychological or developmental problems, other disorders often occur along with ADHD and make treatment more challenging. These include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, other psychiatric disorders, and learning disabilities.
  • #1 About ADHD | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/family-physician/patient-care/prevention-wellness/emotional-wellbeing/adhd-toolkit/about.html
    Many adults with ADHD are not aware they have it they just know that everyday tasks can be a challenge. Adult ADHD can lead to unstable relationships, poor work or school performance, low self-esteem, and other problems. […] While many adults with ADHD are able to cope with their symptoms, studies have shown that ADHD is associated with certain risks including poor academic performance, traffic crashes and injuries, negative occupational outcomes, high rates of separation and divorce, increased mortality rates primarily driven by deaths from unnatural causes, increases in criminal behavior, and increased suicidal behavior.
  • #1 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) syndrome across ages in: Developments in Health Sciences Volume 6 Issue 2 (2023)
    https://akjournals.com/view/journals/2066/6/2/article-p34.xml
    The worldwide prevalence of ADHD is estimated to be between 5% and 11% among children, and between 5% and 7.2% among adults. […] The economic burden associated with ADHD in children, adolescents, and adults is considerable. Specific studies in North America estimate that the annual costs of individuals diagnosed with ADHD, including children, adolescents, and adults, range between $1,028.06 and $18,158.09. In Europe, the estimated costs per individual for the same patient groups range from $831.83 to $20,538.95 annually. […] The goal of the present article is to emphasise that ADHD is a lifelong disorder that imposes a significant economic burden. The article underscores the importance of early diagnosis and effective treatment strategies.
  • #1 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Diagnosis, Treatment, and Telehealth Use in Adults — National Center for Health Statistics Rapid Surveys System, United States, October–November 2023 | MMWR
    https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7340a1.htm
    Approximately one third of adults with current ADHD reported taking prescription stimulant ADHD medication during the previous 12 months (33.4%); nonstimulant ADHD medication use was less common (5.9%). […] Among adults who reported taking a stimulant medication, 71.5% reported difficulty getting their ADHD prescription filled during the previous 12 months because their medication was not available. […] Almost one half of adults with ADHD (46.0%) reported ever receiving telehealth services for their condition. […] Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic (i.e., March 2020), approximately one third of adults with current ADHD used telehealth to obtain a prescription for ADHD medication (30.5%) or to receive counseling or therapy for ADHD (30.8%). […] Approximately one half of adults with current ADHD have ever used telehealth for ADHD services.
  • #1 The Prevalence of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and ADHD Medication Treatment in Active Component Service Members, U.S. Armed Forces, 2014–2018 | Health.mil
    https://health.mil/news/articles/2021/01/01/prevalence-of-att-msmr-jan-2021?type=Articles
    During the 5-year surveillance period, the crude annual ADHD prevalence among the active component declined from 3.9% in 2014 to 2.8% in 2018. Compared to their respective counterparts, service members with less than a high school education, those who were divorced or widowed, non-Hispanic whites, Army members, senior enlisted members, and those in healthcare occupations had higher overall prevalence rates of ADHD. The proportion of prevalent ADHD cases who were prescribed ADHD medication during the surveillance period was 60.2%. During the surveillance period, the majority of medications prescribed were stimulants alone compared to combined stimulant and non-stimulant or non-stimulant only regimens. ADHD patients were more likely to be dispensed medication if they were older than 25 years of age, above junior enlisted rank, divorced/widowed, or in a healthcare occupation.
  • #1 The Prevalence of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and ADHD Medication Treatment in Active Component Service Members, U.S. Armed Forces, 2014–2018 | Health.mil
    https://health.mil/News/Articles/2021/01/01/Prevalence-of-Att-MSMR-Jan-2021?type=Fact+Sheets
    This report documents the prevalence and medication trends of ADHD among the active component service members during 20142018. Previous unpublished data on crude annual ADHD prevalence in the active component prior to 2014 revealed that a peak prevalence occurred in 2011. The current study demonstrated a continued decline in the crude annual prevalence of ADHD in the military since the ADHD accession medical standard became more restrictive in 2010, particularly among junior enlisted service members whose crude annual ADHD prevalence was lower than all other rank groups in 2018. In contrast, national adult ADHD prevalence rose during this same timeframe. The ADHD population in the DOD differs from that in the U.S. civilian population on several key demographic characteristics. Female and male service members have similar prevalences whereas adult males are approximately twice as likely to be diagnosed with ADHD compared to females in the U.S. civilian population. Possible explanations for this finding include that the true ADHD prevalence in males and females may be more similar than previous research has suggested when performing comparable occupations or indicates that males with ADHD may have characteristics selecting them to be disqualified from the military enlistment process at higher rates than females. Additionally, annual ADHD prevalences among service members in healthcare occupations were consistently more than 2 times the prevalences of those in other occupations. The reasons for this difference are unknown but may reflect better access to care, more knowledge about ADHD and treatment options, greater acceptance by coworkers, and/or less physical exertion-based/more sedentary jobs compared to other military occupations.
  • #1
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s44197-023-00167-4
    Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a globally prevalent behavioural disorder, remains underdiagnosed, particularly among adults. […] Despite the United Arab Emirates (UAE) efforts to improve mental healthcare, shortcomings persist. […] No studies in the UAE currently assess the appropriateness of the screening system for ADHD and other behavioural issues. […] Furthermore, prevalence rates of ADHD, particularly within the young adult population, are absent. […] A sample of 406 young adults, aged between 18 and 20 years of age were recruited. Approximately, 34.7% (n=141) reported symptoms suggestive of probable ADHD. […] The study demonstrates a high prevalence of probable ADHD in young adults, particularly among females attending university in the United Arab Emirates.
  • #1
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s44197-023-00167-4
    The findings of the current study suggest that there is a relatively high rate of probable ADHD amongst young adults in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). […] Notably, approximately 35.6% of the sample reported having six or more symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity, indicative of potential ADHD. […] This aligns with previous literature that has suggested ADHD is a significant issue in the region, though it is often underdiagnosed or undiagnosed. […] The observed stigma that may contribute to the underdiagnosis of ADHD could have several sources. […] It is also important to note that our study found a significant association between the presence of ADHD symptoms and lower academic performance, measured by GPA. […] This study presents valuable insights into the prevalence and impact of ADHD symptoms, particularly in school settings, and the notable percentage of females who may be underdiagnosed due to cultural stigma.
  • #1
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s44197-023-00167-4
    In conclusion, the study demonstrated high rates of probable ADHD among young adults attending university in the United Arab Emirates, particularly among females. […] It is also crucial to address the stigma surrounding ADHD and mental health disorders which may influence symptom reporting and deter help-seeking behaviour, an issue known to be prominent in Arab cultures.
  • #1 Prevalence of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): systematic review and meta-analysis | European Psychiatry | Cambridge Core
    https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/european-psychiatry/article/prevalence-of-attentiondeficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-systematic-review-and-metaanalysis/CBC560705C72C55848087632C13DBD37
    The results of this systematic review show that the overall prevalence of ADHD in register studies was 1.6%, in survey studies was 5.0%, in one-stage clinical studies was 4.2%, and in two-stage clinical studies was 4.8%. […] The register studies exhibit the lowest estimate for ADHD prevalence, mostly because of inclusion of the entire population (e.g., children under 2 years old), while the other three types of studies show similar estimates. […] However, our results also indicate that the type of study methodology significantly impacts the estimation of ADHD prevalence.
  • #1 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder
    ADHD is estimated to affect about 67% of people aged 18 and under when diagnosed via the DSM-IV criteria. When diagnosed via the ICD-10 criteria, rates in this age group are estimated around 12%. Rates are similar between countries and differences in rates depend mostly on how it is diagnosed. Children in North America appear to have a higher rate of ADHD than children in Africa and the Middle East; this is believed to be due to differing methods of diagnosis rather than a difference in underlying frequency. […] As of 2019, it was estimated to affect 84.7 million people globally. […] ADHD is diagnosed approximately twice as often in boys as in girls, and 1.6 times more often in men than in women, although the disorder is overlooked in girls or diagnosed in later life because their symptoms sometimes differ from diagnostic criteria. […] Studies from multiple countries have reported that children born closer to the start of the school year are more frequently diagnosed with and medicated for ADHD than their older classmates.
  • #1
    http://oru.diva-portal.org/smash/record.jsf?pid=diva2:1758309
    Overall, the findings indicate that a substantial number of older adults have increased levels of ADHD symptoms and that ADHD in adults is associated with an increased risk of age-related disorders. Further longitudinal studies, based on both community samples and epidemiological data, are needed to explore the risk of age-related disorders in ADHD, and the underlying mechanisms, until a more advanced older age. […] There is a significant knowledge gap in research on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in older adults. […] The pooled prevalence estimates differed significantly across assessment methods: 2.18 % (95 % CI = 1.51, 3.16) based on research diagnosis via validated scales, 0.23 % (0.12, 0.43) relying on clinical ADHD diagnosis, and 0.09 % (0.06, 0.15) based on ADHD treatment rates.
  • #1
    https://journals.lww.com/co-psychiatry/Fulltext/2007/07000/Epidemiology_of_attention_deficit_hyperactivity.13.aspx?generateEpub=Article%7Cco-psychiatry:2007:07000:00013%7C10.1097/yco.0b013e3281568d7a%7C
    Prevalence estimates of the attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and the rate of persistence of symptoms across the lifespan are heterogeneous, raising questions about the validity of the diagnosis. […] The best available estimates of ADHD prevalence are around 5.29% for children and adolescents and 4.4% in adulthood. […] Estimates of ADHD prevalence and rate of symptom persistence over time seem to be highly affected by methodological characteristics of the studies. […] The review of ADHD epidemiology highlights the need for standardizing study methodologies to make findings comparable. Even so, epidemiological cross-national data seem to support the validity of ADHD.
  • #2 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults: Epidemiology, clinical features, assessment, and diagnosis – UpToDate
    https://www.uptodate.com/contents/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-in-adults-epidemiology-clinical-features-assessment-and-diagnosis/print
    Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), one of the most common neuropsychiatric disorders of childhood and adolescence, often persists into adulthood. Studies have found that a majority of people diagnosed with ADHD in childhood continue to meet criteria for the disorder as adults. More recent studies have found that a substantial proportion of those with adult ADHD did not have the condition in childhood. ADHD in adulthood is associated with significant impairment in occupational, academic, and social functioning. […] ADHD in adults is characterized by symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and restlessness, resulting in functional impairment. Impairment in executive function is common. Emotional dysregulation is often seen in these patients. […] This topic discusses the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, course, assessment, and diagnosis of ADHD in adults.
  • #2 Prevalence of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): systematic review and meta-analysis | European Psychiatry | Cambridge Core
    https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/european-psychiatry/article/prevalence-of-attentiondeficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-systematic-review-and-metaanalysis/CBC560705C72C55848087632C13DBD37
    The estimates of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) prevalence across various studies are significantly variable, contributing to uncertainty in ADHD prevalence estimation. […] A few meta-analyses of epidemiological data on adult ADHD have been published; however, Simon et al. published the first meta-analysis in 2009, estimating the prevalence of ADHD in adulthood at 2.5% (95% CI 2.1-3.1). […] Song et al. assessed the global prevalence of adult ADHD in the general population through a systematic review and meta-analysis. The prevalence of persistent adult ADHD was 2.58%, and that of symptomatic adult ADHD was 6.76%. […] Variations in prevalence were also confirmed in the World Mental Health Surveys, where adult ADHD prevalence averaged 2.8% across surveys and was higher in high (3.6%)- and upper-middle (3.0%)- than low-/lower-middle (1.4%)-income countries.
  • #2 Adult Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (aADHD)
    https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/adult-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder
    Although normally associated with children, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder can also persist in adulthood, presenting challenges to both patients and clinicians. […] There is growing evidence that symptoms of ADHD can persist into adulthood and can cause significant impairments in social, academic, and occupational functioning. […] Emerging evidence indicates that ADHD symptoms may persist into adulthood in approximately 15% to 65% of children with ADHD. […] Additionally, there is new evidence to suggest that adult ADHD (aADHD) is not just a continuation of childhood onset ADHD (cADHD), as many individuals do not have a history of this disorder in childhood. […] A meta-analysis evaluating the risk markers that predicted the persistence of ADHD from childhood into adulthood found that the severity of ADHD, treatment for ADHD, comorbid conduct disorder, and comorbid major depressive disorder emerged as predictors for childhood ADHD persisting into adulthood.
  • #2 Azthena logo with the word Azthena
    https://www.news-medical.net/health/ADHD-Epidemiology.aspx
    Children with ADHD appear to be at a higher risk of developing conduct and substance abuse problems in adolescence and adulthood in comparison to children who are not affected. […] For this reason, the prevalence is higher in children and lower in adults. […] Approximately 1 in 6 children with ADHD will maintain the full diagnosis with persistent symptoms into adulthood, and most children will continue to experience residual symptoms. […] ADHD is 3-5 times more common in young boys than girls. However, the sex ratio tends to approach equilibrium in adulthood as the symptoms of more boys than girls usually improve.
  • #2 ADHD: Why Diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is Rising  | Brown University Health
    https://www.lifespan.org/be-well/adhd-why-diagnosis-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-rising
    ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a common condition that has steadily been on the increase in both children and adults. […] There has been a notable increase in ADHD prevalence in both children and adults. […] While typically associated with children, ADHD and its symptoms can continue into adulthood. In fact, some individuals may receive their first ADHD diagnosis as an adult. […] It is estimated that 10.5 million American adults are living with ADHD. A study published in JAMA, reported that diagnosis of ADHD in adults is now four times that of children, and its prevalence more than doubled between 2007 and 2016, from .43 percent to .96 percent. However, other studies suggest even higher rates, ranging from 2.5 percent to 4.4 percent, with more men diagnosed than women. Some researchers suggest that ADHD may be underdiagnosed in adults as well.
  • #2 Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Epidemiology, Treatment and Prevention – Nova Science Publishers
    https://novapublishers.com/shop/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-epidemiology-treatment-and-prevention/
    Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder with underlying brain anatomical and functional measures, as well as familial/genetic factors that are major foci of neuropsychiatric research. […] Traditionally, ADHD is regarded as a childhood disorder, but it is now clear that ADHD affects both children and adults. […] Many adults with ADHD are undiagnosed and untreated. Thus, the negative outcomes reported by most follow-up studies may be a consequence of untreated symptoms. […] The diagnosis of ADHD is broad and heterogeneous, with multiple causes being of neurological, paediatric and psycho-social nature.
  • #2 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults – Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment | BMJ Best Practice
    https://bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-gb/814
    Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common adult disorder, thought to be persistence of childhood ADHD. […] About 75% of adults with ADHD will have at least one other mental health disorder, often anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, or substance use disorders. There is also an association with autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dyspraxia. […] Comorbid disorders are present in more than 75% of adults with ADHD. […] ADHD has a chronic course with symptoms that begin in early childhood but often persist into adult life. […] Diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood requires ancillary information supporting onset of symptoms in childhood (before 12 years of age). […] Another key element of the definition is that symptoms manifest in two or more settings, for example both at home and in work.
  • #2 Burden of ADHD | ADHD Institute
    https://adhd-institute.com/burden-of-adhd
    ADHD is known to persist across the lifespan and affects people of all ages. ADHD prevalence rates vary between children, adolescents and adults […] The majority of adults with ADHD have a diagnosed or undiagnosed psychiatric comorbidity, which can complicate the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. […] ADHD can have a significant social impact on affected individuals lives, causing disruption at school, work, and in relationships. ADHD can also be associated with substantial economic burden for the individual, their family and societal healthcare services. […] The prevalence and effects of adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) on the performance of workers: results from the WHO World Mental Health Survey Initiative.
  • #2 About ADHD | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/family-physician/patient-care/prevention-wellness/emotional-wellbeing/adhd-toolkit/about.html
    Many adults with ADHD are not aware they have it they just know that everyday tasks can be a challenge. Adult ADHD can lead to unstable relationships, poor work or school performance, low self-esteem, and other problems. […] While many adults with ADHD are able to cope with their symptoms, studies have shown that ADHD is associated with certain risks including poor academic performance, traffic crashes and injuries, negative occupational outcomes, high rates of separation and divorce, increased mortality rates primarily driven by deaths from unnatural causes, increases in criminal behavior, and increased suicidal behavior.
  • #2 Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350878
    Different types of health care professionals may diagnose and supervise treatment for ADHD. Seek a provider who has training and experience in caring for adults with ADHD. […] ADHD can make life difficult for you. ADHD has been linked to poor school or work performance, unemployment, financial problems, trouble with the law, alcohol or other substance misuse, frequent car accidents or other accidents, unstable relationships, poor physical and mental health, poor self-image, and suicide attempts. […] Although ADHD doesn’t cause other psychological or developmental problems, other disorders often occur along with ADHD and make treatment more challenging. These include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, other psychiatric disorders, and learning disabilities.
  • #2 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) syndrome across ages in: Developments in Health Sciences Volume 6 Issue 2 (2023)
    https://akjournals.com/view/journals/2066/6/2/article-p34.xml
    The worldwide prevalence of ADHD is estimated to be between 5% and 11% among children, and between 5% and 7.2% among adults. […] The economic burden associated with ADHD in children, adolescents, and adults is considerable. Specific studies in North America estimate that the annual costs of individuals diagnosed with ADHD, including children, adolescents, and adults, range between $1,028.06 and $18,158.09. In Europe, the estimated costs per individual for the same patient groups range from $831.83 to $20,538.95 annually. […] The goal of the present article is to emphasise that ADHD is a lifelong disorder that imposes a significant economic burden. The article underscores the importance of early diagnosis and effective treatment strategies.
  • #2 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Diagnosis, Treatment, and Telehealth Use in Adults — National Center for Health Statistics Rapid Surveys System, United States, October–November 2023 | MMWR
    https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7340a1.htm
    Approximately one third of adults with current ADHD reported taking prescription stimulant ADHD medication during the previous 12 months (33.4%); nonstimulant ADHD medication use was less common (5.9%). […] Among adults who reported taking a stimulant medication, 71.5% reported difficulty getting their ADHD prescription filled during the previous 12 months because their medication was not available. […] Almost one half of adults with ADHD (46.0%) reported ever receiving telehealth services for their condition. […] Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic (i.e., March 2020), approximately one third of adults with current ADHD used telehealth to obtain a prescription for ADHD medication (30.5%) or to receive counseling or therapy for ADHD (30.8%). […] Approximately one half of adults with current ADHD have ever used telehealth for ADHD services.
  • #2 The Prevalence of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and ADHD Medication Treatment in Active Component Service Members, U.S. Armed Forces, 2014–2018 | Health.mil
    https://health.mil/News/Articles/2021/01/01/Prevalence-of-Att-MSMR-Jan-2021?type=Fact+Sheets
    During the 5-year surveillance period, the crude annual ADHD prevalence among the active component declined from 3.9% in 2014 to 2.8% in 2018. Compared to their respective counterparts, service members with less than a high school education, those who were divorced or widowed, non-Hispanic whites, Army members, senior enlisted members, and those in healthcare occupations had higher overall prevalence rates of ADHD. The proportion of prevalent ADHD cases who were prescribed ADHD medication during the surveillance period was 60.2%. During the surveillance period, the majority of medications prescribed were stimulants alone compared to combined stimulant and non-stimulant or non-stimulant only regimens. ADHD patients were more likely to be dispensed medication if they were older than 25 years of age, above junior enlisted rank, divorced/widowed, or in a healthcare occupation.
  • #2
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s44197-023-00167-4
    The findings of the current study suggest that there is a relatively high rate of probable ADHD amongst young adults in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). […] Notably, approximately 35.6% of the sample reported having six or more symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity, indicative of potential ADHD. […] This aligns with previous literature that has suggested ADHD is a significant issue in the region, though it is often underdiagnosed or undiagnosed. […] The observed stigma that may contribute to the underdiagnosis of ADHD could have several sources. […] It is also important to note that our study found a significant association between the presence of ADHD symptoms and lower academic performance, measured by GPA. […] This study presents valuable insights into the prevalence and impact of ADHD symptoms, particularly in school settings, and the notable percentage of females who may be underdiagnosed due to cultural stigma.
  • #2 BackgroundMethodsResultsConclusionsMETHODSSearch strategy and selection criteriaData extraction and quality assessmentStatistical analysisOverall pooled prevalence of adult ADHDSubgroup meta-analysis of adult ADHD prevalenceMeta-regression of adult ADHD p
    https://www.jogh.org/documents/2021/jogh-11-04009.htm
    Thereafter, more epidemiological investigations on adult ADHD have become available, highlighting the need for an updated estimation of adult ADHD prevalence worldwide. […] Our objectives were to 1) assess the global prevalence of adult ADHD; 2) explore the potential associated factors of adult ADHD; 3) estimate the global number of people affected by adult ADHD in 2020. […] The pooled prevalence of persistent adult ADHD was relatively higher in LMICs than in HICs and that of symptomatic adult ADHD varied across WHO regions. […] In 2020, the prevalence of persistent adult ADHD was 2.58%, and that of symptomatic adult ADHD was 6.76%, equivalent to 139.84 million and 366.33 million affected cases globally. […] The lack of internationally acknowledged diagnosis would lead to altered prevalence estimates of adult ADHD across the world. […] Development of a universal diagnostic strategy to detect adult ADHD symptoms is greatly needed for both clinical and public health purposes.
  • #2 Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults: evidence base, uncertainties and controversies – ePrints Soton
    https://eprints.soton.ac.uk/497581/
    Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was once thought to be solely a childhood condition. Now it is well established that it can persist into adulthood, with an estimated worldwide prevalence of around 2.5%. Additionally, up to 70% of individuals with childhood-onset ADHD continue to experience impairing symptoms as adults, even if they no longer meet the criteria for a formal diagnosis. […] This paper summarizes current empirical evidence, alongside uncertainties and controversies, regarding the definition, epidemiology, diagnosis, etiology, neurobiology, and management of ADHD in adults. […] Key uncertainties and controversies on adult ADHD include: a) the possibility of late-onset ADHD; b) the significance of emotional dysregulation as a core symptom; c) the definition and characterization of functional impairment; d) the persistence of psychiatric and somatic conditions after accounting for confounders; e) the relevance of executive dysfunction in the definition of the condition; f) the use of objective diagnostic measures; g) the long-term effects of treatments; and h) the role of non-pharmacological interventions. Further research on adult ADHD is urgently needed. Funding for studies on this condition lags behind that for childhood ADHD and other mental disorders in adulthood. Hopefully, efforts by clinicians, researchers and other stakeholders will ultimately help ensure that adults with ADHD are better understood, supported, and empowered to thrive.
  • #3 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attention_deficit_hyperactivity_disorder
    Rates of diagnosis and treatment have increased in both the United Kingdom and the United States since the 1970s. Prior to 1970, it was rare for children to be diagnosed with ADHD, while in the 1970s rates were about 1%. This is believed to be primarily due to changes in how the condition is diagnosed and how readily people are willing to treat it with medications rather than a true change in incidence. […] Despite showing a higher frequency of symptoms associated with ADHD, non-White children in the US are less likely than White children to be diagnosed or treated for ADHD, a finding that is often explained by bias among health professionals, as well as parents who may be reluctant to acknowledge that their child has ADHD. […] A 2024 study in CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report reports around 15.5 million U.S. adults have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, with many facing challenges in accessing treatment.