In the United States, it is estimated that one out of every ten children and adolescents (6.4 million) have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While there are concerns that ADHD may be over-diagnosed, there is evidence to indicate that this diagnosis may be overlooked in certain populations.
In a recent interview with Contemporary Pediatrics, Timothy Wilens, MD, Chief of the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, discusses the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric ADHD and addresses the following questions:
Why is ADHD being diagnosed more often? Is the prevalence of ADHD on the rise? (Episode 1)
What are the most significant risk factors for ADHD? (Episode 2)
How does pediatric ADHD impact quality of life? (Episode 3)
How can shared decision making improve treatment? (Episode 4)
Dr. Wilens notes, “I can assure you that ADHD isn’t just a cosmetic disorder. This isn’t just a kid who’s a little hyper or grows a little spacey. It’s well beyond that. You’re talking about impairments that start very early, including things like self-esteem that start very early in life and are hard to eradicate untreated. But as you grow up, you’ve got academic issues, problems staying in day care, problems completing your schoolwork, and problems falling behind. Then there are injuries and motor vehicle accidents as children start to drive, and cigarettes and substance use as children age into that risk. There are interpersonal problems throughout their lives, which escalates in adulthood, including problems with their occupation.”
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