Epidemiology and Etiology of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) In school going children of 5 – 14 Years of age in ahmedabad city

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral disorder. It is most common in pediatric age group. The impairment of norepinephrine and dopamine neurotransmitter systems is the preliminary cause of ADHD. The prevalence of ADHD is highly recognized in major countries like India, China, UK, Germany, Netherland etc. Overall prevalence of ADHD in India is 12.34%. It is characterized by three common symptoms inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. There is limited information related to prevalence of ADHD in India. Hence this study was conducted with the aim to find out prevalence of ADHD in 5-14 years of age in primary school children from Ahmedabad city, Gujarat, India and to evaluate role of risk factors for the progression of disease. These factors include age, gender, BMI, Socioeconomic status etc. Methodology: A Randomized, prospective, and multicentric study was carried out to examine ADHD and its correlation with various parameters. This study was done in six different schools of Ahmedabad city. Only children with age 5 to 14 years are included in this study. Informed consent was taken from parent before enrollment of child in the study. Diagnosis of ADHD was done on the basis of CARS (Conner’s Abbreviated Rating Scale). It is prepared according to DSM IV (Diagnostic Statistical Manual Version IV) created by American Psychiatric Association. The effect of different parameters on prevalence of ADHD is also studied. These parameters include behavioural, demographic (age, gender), Anthropometrical (BMI, height and weight), socioeconomic parameters (like Education of Parents, Monthly Income, economical status), and different Types of ADHD. Information related to various parameters were included in CRF (Case Report Form). These forms were filled in by parents of children. Results: The prevalence of the ADHD is found to be 11.48%. Prevalence was found to be higher among the male (12.88%) than female (9.17%). The prevalence was found more in the age group of 5 to 9 years. Lower middle socioeconomic class having higher prevalence than normal and upper middle class. The underweight children are found more prone to this disease than normal and overweight. Type 1 (Inattentive type) ADHD is found more prevalent than other two subtypes.Conclusion: The prevalence of ADHD in Ahmedabad city in 5 to 14 year of age, is similar to prevalence in other areas of India. Early detection of ADHD can be helpful to offer treatment early so the child’s social and academic progress can be maintained normal.