Patient and Disease Characteristics of ADHD in Clinical Practice: A Retrospective Population-based Study in Children and Adolescents

Abstract

Background: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that frequently co-occurs with various developmental, medical and psychosocial conditions. This study profiled children assessed for ADHD in a tertiary care setting.

Methods: Records of 164 children (3–18 years) assessed in 2023, resulting in 55 children suspected of and 109 diagnosed with ADHD, were retrospectively reviewed. Developmental, medical and psychosocial characteristics were analysed descriptively.

Results: Developmental coordination disorder (19.5%), learning disorders (13.4%) and language impairments (12.2%) were commonly associated. Medical comorbidities included atopic (14.6%), neurological (13.4%) and respiratory disorders (12.2%). Prematurity (21.3%) was also a notable risk factor for ADHD. Parental separation (31.1%) and family history of neurodevelopmental disorders (38.4%) were prevalent.

Conclusions: The clinical profile of children referred for ADHD assessment largely reflects patterns described in literature, underscoring the complexity of ADHD as a neurodevelopmental condition and highlighting the need for increased awareness, context-sensitive assessment and multidisciplinary collaboration.