A study of the distribution and determinants of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children aged between 6 to 11 years attending a tertiary care hospital in Chennai

Abstract

Background:

Attention    Deficit    Hyperactivity    Disorder    (ADHD)    is   the    most    prevalent neurobehavioral disorder in children, often leading to negative outcomes such as

academic  struggles  and  low  self-esteem.  Despite  its  prevalence,  a  significant

percentage of cases remain undiagnosed.

Aims & Objectives:

This  study  aims to  identify the distribution  and determinants  of ADHD  among

children aged 6 to 11 years attending a tertiary care hospital in Chennai.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted over 12 months (July 2022 - August 2023) at Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital. A sample size of 430 children was determined based on a prevalence rate of 11.32%. Data were collected using a Personal Information Questionnaire and Conner’s Abbreviated Rating Scale. Ethical

approval was obtained, and informed consent was secured from parents.

Results:-

In this study, we screened 430 children aged 6 to 11 years at the Pediatric

Outpatient Department of Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital. The

distribution of ADHD risk categories, as assessed by the Conner’s Abbreviated

Rating Scale, revealed that 60% of the participants were classified as low risk, 25%

as medium risk, and 15% as high risk. Co-existing conditions were frequently

observed in those diagnosed with ADHD, with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)

and anxiety disorders being the most prevalent. Statistical analysis indicated

significant associations between ADHD and variables such as family psychiatric

history and socio-economic status, with a p-value of less than 0.05.

Discussion:-

The findings of this study align with existing literature that highlights the high

prevalence of ADHD among school-aged children. With 15% of the sample falling

into the high-risk category, this underscores the critical need for early screening

and intervention in pediatric settings. The identified co-morbidities, particularly

ODD and anxiety, reflect the complexity of ADHD as a disorder that often impacts    multiple facets of a child's life. Additionally, the significant associations with socio- economic factors suggest that children from disadvantaged backgrounds may be

at a heightened risk, necessitating targeted interventions. Given the global

prevalence rates of ADHD, which range from 5.3% to 9.2%, our findings provide

important local data that can guide healthcare strategies and resource allocation.  Ultimately, this study emphasizes the urgency for increased awareness, screening,

and therapeutic approaches for ADHD within pediatric healthcare frameworks, as

early detection and intervention are vital for improving educational and

psychosocial outcomes for affected children.