Recognition and Treatment of ADHD: We Can Do Better

An estimated 8.7% prevalence of ADHD in children aged 8 to 15 was derived from the largest nationally representative sample to date.

The 3% to 5% estimated prevalence of ADHD in children reported in most medical literature was extrapolated from referrals to specialty mental health centers. In small community and primary care samples, prevalence estimates range from 4% to 12%. To establish the prevalence of ADHD in a nationally representative sample, investigators used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2000–2004.

About 79% of children (3082 children; age range, 8–15 years) who participated in the survey had diagnostic data obtained from a validated structured telephone interview administered to caregivers. Overall, 8.7% of participants met DSM-IV criteria for ADHD; 48% of these children had previously received a diagnosis of ADHD, and only 32% …

Reviewing Author

Martin T. Stein, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory boardPearson Neuroscience Advisory Board

Speaker’s bureauAmerican Academy of Pediatrics

RoyaltiesElsevier, Inc.

Editorial boardsJournal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics

Martin T. Stein, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory boardPearson Neuroscience Advisory Board

Speaker’s bureauAmerican Academy of Pediatrics

RoyaltiesElsevier, Inc.

Editorial boardsJournal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics