Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children

Home » Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children » About ADHD, Incidence and Prevalence of ADHD

About ADHD

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a medical condition that can make it difficult for a child to sit still, pay attention, and control his or her behavior. Symptoms of ADHD appear in early childhood (i.e., before the age of 7); however, in some cases, the disorder is not recognized until adolescence or adulthood.

ADHD is a chronic (long-lasting) neurobehavioral disorder, which means it is related to how the central nervous system (e.g., brain, spinal cord) affects behavior, learning, and emotions. Children with ADHD have differences in brain structure that result in impulsive behavior (impulsivity), an inability to focus, and abnormally high levels of activity (hyperactivity). Attention-deficit disorder (ADD) refers to the condition without hyperactivity.

Children who have ADHD often get into trouble at school. They may try to avoid situations that require concentration, quick decision-making, or the ability to accept responsibility for their actions.

Approximately 20–30% of children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder also have a specific learning disability, such as dyslexia (difficulty processing language), dyscalculia (difficulty with math skills), or dysgraphia (difficulty with written expression). Recent studies show that children and teenagers who have ADHD are at increased risk for substance abuse (addiction to alcohol and/or drugs).

Incidence and Prevalence of ADHD
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), ADHD affects approximately 3–5% of children. It is estimated that about 2 million children in the United States have the disorder. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder occurs worldwide and variations in statistics concerning the condition are due in part to differences in cultural perceptions and expectations.

ADHD is diagnosed more often in boys than in girls. However, the reason for this may be that the condition often presents differently in boys and girls. For example, boys with ADHD are more likely to display disruptive behavior that gains attention and is recognized easier, and girls with the disorder may simply appear passive or unmotivated. Boys who have ADHD often are labeled as "discipline problems."

ADHD occurs more often in children who have a family history of the disorder. Studies have shown that about 25% of children who have ADHD also have a close relative (e.g., parent, sibling) with the disorder.

© 1998-2008 Healthcommunities.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children Resources

	Join Our ADHD in Children Forum Do you have a question, want to share medical advice, or just need to discuss your situation with someone else having a similar experience? The healthchannels forum is a resource for everyone to share and discuss their health and medical needs with others.	Advertising Disclaimer
	Living with...Share your story Do you have a personal health story that you would like to share with others? As a source of free patient education, our goal is to provide our users with trustworthy information and support from others. That's why we've started our "Living with..." sections.
	Our "Living With..." support pages are a place to share experiences about living with a certain condition, disease, disorder, or illness and for loved ones of those dealing with health-related issues. Many people, especially when newly diagnosed, find comfort in knowing that others are having a similar experience. Help others by sharing your story. View stories already submitted.
	Stay Updated Sign up for our newsletter and receive important updates on the medical conditions that are most important to you.
To quickly access health information from your website's browser, download Healthcommunities.com's healthchannels toolbar. Advertising Disclaimer