“ADHD on the Rise: What Parents Need to Know About This Growing Public Health Concern”
According to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is becoming an “expanding public health concern” in the United States. The report reveals that about 1 in 9 children between the ages of 3 and 17 have been diagnosed with ADHD, totaling to 7.1 million kids and adolescents in 2022, which is a million more than in 2016.
The increase in ADHD diagnoses is attributed to the data collected during the pandemic, where many children experienced heightened stress, depression, and anxiety. Melissa Danielson, a statistician with the CDC, notes that some children may have been assessed for other conditions like anxiety or depression, leading to the identification of ADHD as well.
The report also highlights a shift in the diagnosis of ADHD among girls, who are now being diagnosed at a rate closer to that of boys. Girls tend to manifest ADHD in a more inattentive way, such as daydreaming or lack of focus, compared to the hyperactive or impulsive behavior often seen in boys.
While the number of children diagnosed with ADHD has risen, the report found that only about half of them were receiving medication for the condition, compared to two-thirds in 2016. Reports of shortages of ADHD medications may have contributed to this decrease in medication usage.
Dr. Max Wiznitzer, a pediatric neurology professor, emphasizes the importance of medication in managing ADHD symptoms, along with behavioral therapy. He notes that ADHD treatment should involve a two-pronged approach to help children focus and learn strategies to manage their condition.
The report also reveals that nearly 78% of children diagnosed with ADHD have at least one other diagnosed disorder, with behavioral or conduct problems, anxiety, and developmental delays being the most common. Children with ADHD are at increased risk for other conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, which can lead to serious health concerns in adulthood if left untreated.
Parents seeking information on treatment and services for ADHD can visit CHADD (Children And Adults with ADHD), a non-profit resources organization. Dr. Wiznitzer advises parents to start the conversation with their pediatrician when seeking treatment for their children with ADHD.
Increased awareness and diagnosis of ADHD are crucial in addressing the long-term health risks associated with the condition, such as diabetes, heart disease, and shortened lifespan. The findings of the CDC report underscore the importance of early detection and comprehensive treatment for children with ADHD to improve their overall well-being and quality of life.